By idris Umar Zaria
Professor Kabir Isa of the Department of Local Government and Development Studies, Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, has presented a groundbreaking inaugural lecture examining the deep connections between governance failures, non-state violence, and Nigeria’s development challenges.
Titled “Triple Helix: Governance, Non-State Violence and Development in Nigeria,” the lecture was delivered at the Yusuf Bala Usman Auditorium, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, under the leadership of the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Adamu Ahmed.
The lecture highlighted a new analytical perspective developed by Professor Isa, known as the Triple Helix Framework, which explains how weak governance structures, violent activities by non-state armed groups, and persistent development setbacks reinforce one another.
Drawing from a thirty-year study spanning 1994 to 2025 across eight states in Northern Nigeria, the research employed structured interviews, focus group discussions, and conflict data analysis to investigate the roots and consequences of insecurity and underdevelopment.
Professor Isa’s findings revealed that major security challenges facing Nigeria—including banditry, the Boko Haram insurgency, farmer–herder conflicts, and the emergence of armed vigilante groups—are linked by a common underlying factor: governance failure, particularly at the local government level.
According to the study, weaknesses in local governance systems have contributed to poor public service delivery, declining trust in state institutions, and conditions that allow criminal and violent groups to expand their influence.
The research further established a strong relationship between local government autonomy and effective service delivery, emphasizing that stronger and more accountable local institutions are essential for addressing insecurity and promoting sustainable development.
Professor Isa also highlighted the wider consequences of governance failures, including the spread of armed criminal networks, the displacement of millions of citizens, and Nigeria’s declining progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
To address these challenges, the lecture recommended strengthening local government institutions and introduced the concept of Competitive Governance as a new framework for policy analysis, institutional reform, and improving government performance.
In his concluding remarks, Professor Isa argued that rebuilding governance systems—especially at the grassroots level—is central to reducing violence, restoring citizens’ confidence in public institutions, and creating the foundation for sustainable development in Nigeria.
At the end of the lecture, Professor Isa expressed deep appreciation to Almighty Allah, his parents, mentors, colleagues, students, and all those who supported his academic journey. He also conveyed gratitude to Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, for providing an enabling environment that allowed him to contribute meaningfully to knowledge and society.
The Vice-Chancellor of Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Adamu Ahmed, praised the quality, relevance, and significance of the lecture, describing it as a valuable contribution to national and global conversations on governance, security, and development.
Professor Ahmed also commended the Local Organising Committee (LOC), guests, staff, students, and all stakeholders who contributed to the success of the event, while wishing participants a safe return to their respective destinations.
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