Abuja: Prof. Danladi Atu, Director-General of the African Peace Institute and Social Studies (APIS), has advocated for a paradigm shift from traditional state-centric security to a human-centric approach that emphasizes the protection, dignity, welfare, and participation of citizens. According to News Agency of Nigeria, this call was highlighted in a communiqu© issued by Dr. Taiwo Orebiyi, Head of the Department of Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution at the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN), following an International Hybrid Conference held from September 1 to September 2, 2026, in Abuja.
The conference, themed ‘Peace, Security, and the Human Condition: Navigating Conflict, Displacement, Gender Issues, and Artificial Intelligence in a Fractured World,’ brought together scholars, diplomats, and academics to discuss pressing issues facing humanity. Atu emphasized that security should be assessed not merely by the absence of war but by the ability of ordinary people to live without fear, want, exclusion, and indignity. He posited that meaningful security must enhance the quality of life for all individuals.
Despite significant technological advancements, such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital connectivity, and scientific breakthroughs, Atu pointed out that humanity continues to grapple with violent conflicts and societal challenges. He described this as a paradox where technological capabilities have not necessarily translated into human security.
Atu advocated for interconnected responses to interconnected threats, transcending national and institutional boundaries. He highlighted the importance of human security, which should shield people from violence, exploitation, and abuse, while ensuring access to essential services, justice, freedom, and governance participation. Conflict transformation, he explained, should complement human security by turning conditions that fuel conflict into opportunities for development and improved welfare.
The scholar also called for greater inclusion of women, youths, and communities in peace and security frameworks, acknowledging their potential roles as mediators, negotiators, and community peacebuilders. He warned that the effects of displacement due to conflict could persist long after violence ceases, leading to loss of livelihoods, trauma, and social fragmentation. Therefore, he advocated for human-centered solutions to displacement and improved conflict management to prevent new conflicts from arising.
Atu raised concerns about the growing influence of AI, urging that technological development remain subject to ethical considerations. He asserted that AI should serve humanity, not replace or undermine human dignity, stressing that “technology without humanity is dangerous.” He emphasized the importance of humanizing security policies and ensuring that policy formulation reflects the realities of the people they are meant to serve.
High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, Mr. Mainul Kabir, underscored the need for global cooperation on peace, economic development, and technological advancement. Kabir shared insights from Bangladesh’s experience in UN peacekeeping, poverty reduction, and women empowerment, noting Bangladesh’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions. He acknowledged AI’s potential benefits in health, education, and agriculture, while urging caution against its misuse.
Prof. Uduma Uduma, Vice-Chancellor of NOUN, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor Shehu Adamu, highlighted AI’s role in conflict prediction, early warning, and humanitarian response, while cautioning against misinformation and ethical concerns. Uduma commended the conference for addressing the challenges of conflict, insecurity, and technological change, urging universities to contribute practical solutions through innovation and dialogue.
Prof. Kamal Bello, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences at NOUN, emphasized the need for ongoing scholarly attention to issues like food insecurity, displacement, and gender inequality. He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with insecurity since 2009 and stressed the importance of academic efforts to explore pathways toward peace and security.