The Director-General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Prof. Ayo Omotayo, says the Nigerian government should not be afraid to negotiate with bandits if it means saving the lives of its citizens.

Prof. Omotayo made this statement on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, during an interview on Arise Television.

His comments come at a time when Nigeria is facing a fresh wave of violence, including recent deadly attacks on military outposts in the North-East that have left dozens of soldiers dead.

The NIPSS boss argued that the main job of any government is to protect its people and its property.

He explained that a responsible government must explore every possible option to stop the killings, even if that includes talking to criminal groups.

"One thing that is clear is that the purpose of government is to secure its people and secure its assets,” Omotayo said.

“So, I believe that any government that is responsible will look for all means always to ensure that the people are protected.”

Dialogue is Not a Sign of Weakness

Prof. Omotayo specifically addressed the controversy surrounding figures like Sheikh Ahmad Gumi, who has often called for dialogue with armed groups.

He insisted that choosing to talk does not mean the government has failed or is “weak.”

“Negotiating with Sheikh Gumi or any of those other forces doesn’t mean weakness in government,” he noted. “It’s welcome if it’s going to lead us to having our people secured everywhere in Nigeria.”

The Professor admitted that while there was a short period of “semblance of peace” recently, the country is currently dealing with a serious “resurgence” of banditry.

He expressed hope that the security forces would regain control if the government provided them with the necessary modern tools and support.

This push for dialogue follows a tense week in Nigeria’s security landscape, where reports confirmed that at least 65 soldiers were killed in jihadist raids in Borno State between March 5 and March 9, 2026.

This video provides a recent broadcast update on Professor Ayo Omotayo’s leadership and the policy directions being discussed at NIPSS during this critical security period.