The Interfaith Mediation Centre in Kaduna on Wednesday called for urgent, coordinated action to address rising security threats and social instability across Nigeria.

The centre made the call after its strategic weekly review meeting on the Early Warning and Early Response System.

A statement signed by the centre’s director, Michael Ikpa, said the meeting was led by the centre’s executive directors, Samson Auta and Hayatu Nura, along with other team members.

The centre identified several early warning indicators, adding that if left unaddressed, they could undermine national peace, unity, and development.

Some of the concerns highlighted were the growing spread of religious hate speech and intolerance on social media.

The centre also noted an increase in criminal activities such as theft and ritual killings linked to the pursuit of wealth and power.

The IMC also expressed worry over the rising cases of drug and substance abuse, particularly among youths, and the escalation of cybercrimes.

To address the situation, the IMC called for stronger collaboration between government, security agencies, religious leaders, civil society groups, and community stakeholders.

It also urged religious and traditional leaders to promote tolerance and peaceful coexistence, and to advocate increased investment in youth empowerment programmes to curb crime and substance abuse.

The centre restated the need for community-based early response mechanisms, improved security for educational institutions and responsible use of digital platforms to prevent the spread of misinformation and hate speech.

It further advised political actors to exercise restraint and prioritise national unity over partisan interests.

The interfaith centre reaffirmed its commitment to peace-building and conflict prevention, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to relevant authorities.

“Peace and security are collective responsibilities, and together, we can build a safer and more united society,” the statement said.

(NAN)