Nigerian social commentator Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), has stated that the persistent insecurity in Nigeria, particularly terrorism, cannot be solved by force alone. In a recent video, he emphasized that the only sustainable solution is to overhaul and prioritize education in Northern Nigeria, where many youths have limited access to formal schooling. According to VDM, the lack of education leaves young people vulnerable to recruitment by terrorist groups and violent actors.
He argued that any Nigerian leader willing to dedicate a significant portion of their tenure to compulsory education in the Northern region would make considerable progress in ending terrorism. VDM highlighted that knowledge is power, and it is the educated few who manipulate uneducated youths for violent agendas. He warned that without substantial educational reforms, Nigeria will continue to suffer insecurity caused by the exploitation of idle, uneducated young individuals.
The activist also noted the prevalence of idle youths begging in Northern cities, stating it would be easy for someone with malicious intent to mobilize thousands for violent purposes. His comments have sparked widespread discussions about the urgent need to address regional educational disparities as a key strategy for Nigeria's national security challenges.