The President General of the United Nations Association of Africa (UNAA), Amb. Sylvester Okafor, has expressed deep concern over the escalating presence of terrorist groups in Nigeria, particularly the emergence of a new faction in Sokoto State, alongside worsening violence in other regions, including the South East.

In a press statement signed from the United States and made available to journalists in Abuja by the Association’s Director of Communications, Amb. Nwokoma Messiah, Amb. Okafor warned that the growing insecurity poses a significant threat not only to the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens but also to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the country.

It will be recalled that a newly formed terrorist group, identified as the Rukarawa group, has been causing havoc in Sokoto and Kebbi States—killing innocent civilians, destroying property, and preventing farmers from accessing their land. These alarming developments prompted Amb. Okafor to call on the federal government to take swift and decisive action to confront these threats. He emphasized that the current security challenges severely undermine progress in economic stability, education, healthcare, and peace—key pillars of the SDGs.

"The rise of these terror groups is a grave concern for all Nigerians. It is imperative that the federal government reassesses its strategies and allocates the necessary resources to address this burgeoning crisis," Amb. Okafor stated. "Insecurity hampers development, and if left unchecked, it will reverse the progress we've made towards our national and international commitments."

Amb. Okafor urged the government to strengthen collaboration with international partners and invest in community-driven initiatives that foster peace and security. He underscored the importance of engaging local leaders and communities in the fight against terrorism, stressing that sustainable solutions must involve those most affected by the violence.

The United Nations Association of Africa, he added, stands ready to support the government and civil society in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria—ensuring an environment where development can flourish and the SDGs can be fully realized.