In a recent interview, Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, former Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission of Nigeria, highlighted that the country’s current security issues are fundamentally linked to foreign policy miscalculations. He emphasized that neglect in building and maintaining regional security alliances has left Nigeria vulnerable to destabilizing factors spilling over from the Sahel region. His comments come in a vital context as Nigeria grapples with increasing insecurity and mass violent incidents across various states, suggesting that leadership shortcomings are complicating these problems further.

Odinkalu elaborated that Nigeria’s diplomatic failures have rendered the nation exposed, particularly in light of the instability arising from neighboring countries. He stressed that the absence of strategic coherence in governance has created a fertile ground for insecurity to thrive. He indicated that public safety and ethical governance are intertwined, with the lack of legitimacy weakening the state's ability to respond effectively to security challenges. Moreover, recent mass killings in Nigeria serve as grim reminders of how ineffective governance can directly impact citizen safety.

The discussion also pointed to Nigeria’s reaction to the military coup in the Niger Republic in July 2023 as a critical inflection point for its overall security posture. Odinkalu argued that this event highlighted a misalignment in Nigeria's foreign policy, further entrenching the challenges faced by the country in the realm of security. The implications of these findings are significant, suggesting a need for a reevaluation of Nigeria's diplomatic strategies and a reaffirmation of regional partnerships to combat emerging threats effectively and rebuild security in the nation.