Former Senator, human rights advocate and writer, Senator Shehu Sani, has unveiled a new book and stage production designed to stimulate national reflection on the dangers of irregular migration and the importance of community-driven responses to insecurity in Nigeria.
The book, The Perilous Path to Europe: The Sahara Odyssey, alongside the stage play, The Village and the Vigilante, was presented on Thursday in Abuja at a high-profile event that attracted academics, diplomats, literary figures, creative artists and civil society leaders, underscoring the growing role of literature and theatre in shaping public policy conversations.
The twin works interrogate the socio-economic drivers of irregular migration and highlight the critical role of communities in responding to banditry, terrorism, and other security threats. Through literature and performance, the event explored how governance failures, unemployment, and weak institutions continue to push young Africans toward dangerous migration routes, while insecurity persists in vulnerable regions.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Emeka Aniagolu blamed Africa’s developmental setbacks on poor leadership and weak governance structures. He called for leadership rooted in integrity, competence, and long-term vision, urging African governments to eliminate ethnic and religious bias, adopt zero tolerance for corruption, and prioritise investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure, and regional connectivity within ECOWAS.
Representing the European Union Delegation, Mr. Osaro described the book as a timely and realistic account of the risks and motivations behind irregular migration, stressing the importance of such narratives in promoting safe, orderly, and legal migration pathways.
Other speakers, including Colombia’s Honorary Consul, Naridel Romero, and Ghana’s Deputy High Commissioner, Dr. Gladys M.Y. Feddy Akyea, highlighted the power of literature and the arts to stimulate public dialogue and address complex societal challenges.
Experts also drew attention to the impact of migration on women and youth, weak policy implementation, and the urgent need for education reform, job creation, and youth empowerment.
In his remarks, Senator Sani emphasised that lasting security can only be achieved through community ownership and collaboration among traditional institutions, vigilante groups, security agencies, and citizens. He cautioned against overreliance on external interventions and urged young Nigerians to seek opportunities at home rather than embark on life-threatening journeys abroad.
The event concluded with a live performance of The Village and the Vigilante, reinforcing the message of collective responsibility and community resilience in confronting Nigeria’s security and migration challenges.