In this opinion piece, labour leader and public affairs commentator Issa Aremu examines the distinction between a police state and a developmental state, arguing that Nigeria’s future lies in strengthening institutions that promote inclusive growth rather than relying on coercive governance.

Aremu contends that while maintaining law and order is an essential responsibility of government, sustainable national development requires policies that prioritise economic transformation, industrialisation, quality education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation.

He argues that a developmental state fosters innovation, productivity, and social inclusion by creating an environment where citizens and businesses can thrive under transparent and accountable institutions.

The article also stresses that democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for fundamental rights are critical to achieving long-term political stability and economic prosperity.

According to Aremu, Nigeria should focus on building strong public institutions capable of driving development while ensuring that security agencies operate within constitutional limits and uphold citizens’ rights.

He concludes that the country’s progress will ultimately depend on shifting national priorities from excessive dependence on state coercion to policies that empower citizens, stimulate economic growth, and improve overall quality of life.

The Federal Government of Nigeria has announced plans to airlift about 300 Nigerians from South Africa on Wednesday following renewed xenophobic attacks and rising security concerns.

The evacuation is part of the government’s efforts to ensure the safety and welfare of Nigerian citizens affected by the recent wave of violence and hostility targeting some foreign nationals in South Africa.

According to government officials, the returnees voluntarily registered for evacuation after expressing concerns over their safety and livelihoods amid the unrest.

Relevant Nigerian authorities, in collaboration with officials in South Africa, have coordinated the evacuation process, including travel arrangements and necessary documentation for the affected citizens.

The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and said it would continue engaging South African authorities through diplomatic channels to address the situation and safeguard the rights of Nigerians residing in the country.

The planned evacuation comes as both countries continue efforts to strengthen bilateral relations while addressing recurring incidents of xenophobic violence that have affected foreign nationals in South Africa.

The ‘s inaugural AI safety panel has warned that scientists cannot dismiss the possibility of “catastrophic harm” arising from increasingly advanced artificial intelligence systems.

In its assessment, the panel said AI has the potential to deliver enormous benefits across sectors such as healthcare, education, scientific research, and economic development. However, it cautioned that the technology also poses significant risks if left without adequate safeguards.

The experts noted that while there is no consensus on the likelihood of extreme AI-related scenarios, the possibility of catastrophic outcomes cannot be ruled out, making proactive governance and international cooperation essential.

The panel urged governments, technology companies, researchers, and international institutions to work together in establishing robust standards for AI development, transparency, accountability, and risk management.

It also emphasized the need to balance innovation with public safety, ensuring that the rapid advancement of AI technologies does not outpace regulatory frameworks designed to protect societies.

The report comes as countries around the world intensify efforts to develop AI policies amid growing concerns over misinformation, cybersecurity threats, job displacement, privacy, and the long-term implications of increasingly capable AI systems.

The panel concluded that global collaboration will be crucial to maximizing AI’s benefits while minimizing risks that could have far-reaching consequences for humanity.