Lukman Abdulmalik
Mambayya House, in collaboration with the Department of Political Science, Bayero University Kano, has organized a one-day hybrid conference on “Assessing Insecurity and Democratic Development in West Africa: Trends, Challenges and Prospects.”
The event, held on Wednesday at Mambayya House, brought together scholars, researchers and practitioners which are present both physically and virtually to discuss emerging security challenges and the state of democracy across the sub-region.
In his welcome address, the Director of Mambayya House, Prof. Habu Muhammed, represented by the Deputy Director, Prof. Bello Ibrahim, said the conference was convened to provide research-based insights and practical solutions to insecurity and democratic setbacks in West Africa.
He noted that all studies presented were grounded in rigorous academic research, and their findings would serve as valuable guidance for policymakers committed to strengthening democratic governance and improving security architecture.
A total of 17 research papers were presented during the conference.
One of the presenters, Dr. Surajo Yahaya Muhammad, spoke on “Election Management and the Promotion of Democracy in Nigeria.”
He stressed that credible elections remain the backbone of any democratic system.
According to him, elections marred by irregularities threaten democratic stability.
He emphasized that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must ensure adequate logistics, capacity building, civic education, transparency, enhanced trust, improved security frameworks and post-election citizen engagement to curb electoral malpractice and strengthen democratic processes.
Another presenter, Dr. Mustapha Isiyaku, delivered a paper titled “Dynamics of Conflict in West Africa: Issues and Perspectives of Nigeria–Benin Border Relations.”
His study examined conflict dynamics in Niger and Kebbi States, identifying land disputes, smuggling activities, youth mobilisation, and security corruption as key drivers of cross-border tensions.
He explained that youth groups often play dual roles in acting as both defenders and participants in smuggling networks which are mobilized by local elites or unions for conflict or peace.
Despite the challenges, he noted that communities have adopted several peacebuilding mechanisms, including traditional mediation and joint efforts to rebuild destroyed border markers.
Dr. Isiyaku recommended the establishment of joint governance committees, stronger ethical oversight for security personnel, transparent geological surveys, and youth training as border peace volunteers.
The conference concluded with an interactive session, including questions and answers, followed by the adoption of a communiqué.
