Governor Babatunde. Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Christopher Musa are expected as lead speakers at the 18th edition of the Africa Security Watch Award and Conference scheduled for December 10 in Doha, Qatar.
The International Coordinator/Chief Executive Officer of Africa Security Watch, Patrick Agbambu, announced this at a briefing in Abuja, on Monday, October 21.
Agbambu said while Sanwo-Olu will speak on the conference theme: “Developing Module for People-Centric Governance Towards Enhancement of Peace and Security” focusing on Lagos example, General Musa will speak on “Nexus Between Citizens’ Socio-economic Development and National Defence.
He said the theme of the event was carefully chosen to “speak directly to the heart of the challenges we face and set the stage for actionable discussions that will help pave the way for a more peaceful and secure Africa.”
Agbambu said: “The foremost responsibility of any government or leadership is to ensure the safety, security and well-being of its citizens. It is through responsive and people-centered governance that societies can thrive, where policies are crafted with the people in mind, ensuring peace, stability, and security for all.
“Sadly, our beloved continent of Africa continues to face significant challenges in this regard. Today, over 70% of Africa remains affected by various levels of insecurity. As a result, development stagnates, fear prevails, and too many of our citizens remain trapped in poverty.
“It is within this context that we at the Security Watch Africa Initiative (SWAI) have chosen the theme for the 18th Africa Security Watch Awards & Conference: “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards the Enhancement of Peace and Security in Africa.”
According to him, the conference was designed to deliver a practical and insightful solution to various security challenges in Africa with the selection of “distinguished keynote speakers, lead paper presenters, and panellists from across the continent and beyond.”
“These esteemed individuals will address critical topics that are pivotal to shaping a secure future for Africa,” he said.
Agbambu said 30 personalities, corporate organizations and agencies from across Africa will be awarded Crystal Award Trophies in recognition of their outstanding contributions to peace and security on the African continent.
He said: “At Security Watch Africa Initiatives, we believe that security encompasses everything that threatens human lives and valuables, and this is reflected in our award categories. From leadership and governance to the armed forces, police, medical professionals, the media, hospitality, transportation, and humanitarian service honour those who make our continent safer and better.”
A member of the Board of Trustees, Brig.-General Kukasheka Usman (rtd) said the choice of Qatar was in recognition of the country’s immense value on humanity, security and quality of life for its people.
“We believe that participants will experience the best practices in that country and through this experience, we can learn invaluable lessons that can be applied in Africa,” he said.