**Ethnic Profiling: A Threat to National Stability in Nigeria** In a recent virtual dialogue, security experts from across West Africa, including Nigeria, warned that ethnic profiling and the use of imprecise labels in security discourse and operations can have devastating consequences for national stability. This warning was sounded during a high-level discussion on refining the language used in regional security operations. The meeting, which was organised by Beacon Security and Intelligence Limited (BSIL) and the Whiteink Institute for Strategy Education and Research (WISER), with support from the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, highlighted the need for more nuanced and conflict-sensitive language in security operations. The focus was on Nigeria's North-west and North-central regions, where ethnic profiling and the misuse of terminology have been major drivers of tensions and conflict. According to security experts, hate speech and divisive narratives are key drivers of violence in these regions. They stressed the importance of using language that promotes peace and stability, and warned that careless language can undermine peacebuilding efforts and escalate tensions. In Nigeria, where ethnic and regional identities are often complex and multifaceted, the use of imprecise labels can have serious consequences. Labels are rarely neutral and often oversimplify identities, leading to further marginalisation and social exclusion. Ambassador Sarki Usman, representing multi-agency organisations, noted that ethnic profiling is not only harmful but also counterproductive, as it creates stigma that undermines intelligence gathering and national security efforts. Professor Okey Okechukwu of Nnamdi Azikiwe University observed that the use of simplistic labels can lead to a lack of understanding of the complexities of identity and conflict in Nigeria. He stressed the need for a more nuanced approach to language in security operations. The dialogue was a timely reminder of the importance of using language that promotes understanding and respect for diversity. In a country like Nigeria, where ethnic and regional identities are deeply ingrained, it is essential to use language that promotes peace, stability, and national unity. **The Way Forward** As Nigeria continues to grapple with the challenges of national security and stability, it is essential to adopt a more nuanced and conflict-sensitive approach to language in security operations. This requires a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity and conflict in Nigeria, and a commitment to using language that promotes peace and stability. By adopting a more nuanced approach to language, Nigeria can help to reduce tensions and conflict, and promote a more stable and peaceful society. This is a challenge that requires the collective effort of all stakeholders, including the government, civil society, and the private sector.