Nigeria’s foremost cybersecurity expert, Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, has outlined a strategic framework for addressing the country’s escalating insecurity, stressing the need for an integrated approach that combines security reform, socio-economic stability, and ethical governance.
Speaking as a guest on Politics HQ, a News Central TV programme, during a panel debate on November 28, 2025, Professor Ademola joined other discussants, including Dr Khalifa Abbas and politician Adamu Garba, to examine the “State of the Nation: Rising Insecurity.” The session, hosted by Dapo Adedgboye, also addressed related issues such as the United States’ genocide claim and the diplomatic tensions it triggered.
Professor Ademola, who is Nigeria’s and Africa’s first Professor of Cybersecurity and IT Management, anchored his submissions on what he termed the “Tripod Model”, a blueprint he believes can break the country’s cycle of violence. The model focuses on three core pillars: security architecture reform, socio-economic stabilisation, and ethical governance.
Under security architecture reform, he pushed for enhanced intelligence gathering supported by technology, expansion of community policing, and the regulation of lawful self-defence. He also stressed the importance of safeguarding digital spaces, noting that social media platforms are increasingly being exploited for criminal coordination and extremist propaganda.
On socio-economic stabilisation, Professor Ademola highlighted the strong link between poverty and violence. He called for youth empowerment initiatives, agricultural revitalisation, and widespread digital literacy. He condemned ransom payments in kidnap-for-ransom cases, describing them as an economic lifeline for criminal networks and a direct threat to national sovereignty.
For governance and ethical leadership, he urged governments at all levels to embrace transparency and inclusivity as a means of rebuilding public trust. He advocated a clear framework for self-defence that empowers citizens without encouraging lawlessness or vigilante activities.
“Insecurity in Nigeria is not merely a failure of arms — it is a failure of vision, structure, and trust,” he declared during the debate. “My Tripod Model offers a path forward: reform the security architecture, stabilise the socio-economic base, and restore ethical governance. We must secure our digital spaces, discourage ransom payments, and empower lawful self-defence. This is how we reclaim our nation’s destiny.”
The intervention has since drawn national attention, reinforcing Professor Ademola’s influence in shaping public policy thinking. His Tripod Model continues to resonate across policymaking circles, civil society, and faith-based organisations seeking durable solutions to Nigeria’s prolonged security challenges.
