A former Ogun State governor, Senator Gbenga Daniel, has said security is the lifeblood of any strong economy.

He noted that unrest and banditry affecting Nigeria were harming sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and consequently discouraging foreign investors.

Speaking in Lagos on Thursday, Mr Daniel drew a connection between security and economy, noting that it was nearly impossible for the latter to function progressively without the former.

“Nigeria cannot have a strong economy without security, and it cannot have lasting security without a strong economy,” the Ogun East senator said.

He said the nation’s impressive GDP 4.45 per cent growth should not remain as unrelatable figures but must reflect in the lives of ordinary Nigerians, many of whom have become fearful to go to farm or even find gainful employment.

He added that manufacturers and entrepreneurs were barely surviving due to the high cost of operations ranging from power to logistics.

The senator said, “When farmers are afraid to cultivate their land, food production suffers. When roads are unsafe, the cost of transporting goods rises. When businesses spend excessively on protection, their competitiveness declines. When communities live in fear, investment is discouraged.”

He said security should not be limited to only military and other law enforcement agencies but as an “essential part of economic infrastructure.”

He described the abduction figures of over 7,800 persons between July 2025 and June 2026, as an “economic warning.”

According to Mr Daniel security, infrastructure and opportunity are critical conditions that will enable a thriving economy for existing businesses and woo foreign investors.

He stated, “If we secure our farms, we strengthen food security. If we secure our roads, we strengthen commerce. If we secure our communities, we attract investment. If we create jobs and invest in our young people, we strengthen social stability and the future of the nation.”