Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has declared that President Bola Tinubu “rescued the nation” at a perilous moment in its history, when Nigeria was beset by numerous security and political crises threatening its unity and survival.
Ribadu made the remarks in Abuja during the 50th anniversary celebration of the Nigerian Defence Academy’s 18 Regular Course. Addressing attendees, including senior military officials and government dignitaries, he described the national security landscape as dire when President Tinubu assumed office.
“The country was at a dangerous crossroad, there were multiple, overlapping crises cutting across every region from insurgency and terrorism in the North East, to banditry in the North West, oil-related militancy in the Niger Delta, and separatist movements in the South East,” Ribadu stated.
Ribadu, a former chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), said the Tinubu administration inherited what he termed “intractable security challenges”, but has since taken bold and determined steps to restore national security and rebuild public confidence.
The NSA reported that over 13,500 terrorists and criminal elements have been neutralised under the current government’s counterinsurgency operations. In addition, more than 124,000 Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, along with their families, have surrendered to authorities a development Ribadu cited as a major breakthrough in national security efforts.
“These achievements reflect the administration’s commitment to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians,” he said.
Ribadu also underscored the importance of leveraging the experience of military veterans in the ongoing battle against insecurity. He advocated for the active engagement of retired service personnel in intelligence, training, and advisory roles, citing their institutional memory and tactical knowledge as invaluable assets.
While praising the courage and sacrifices of the armed forces, he called for continued national unity and civilian support in order to consolidate recent security gains and move the country forward.
The NSA’s comments come amid broader efforts by the Tinubu-led government to address Nigeria’s complex security environment and restore stability to a nation that, for years, has grappled with terrorism, inter-communal violence, and economic dislocation.
As the anniversary event drew to a close, Ribadu urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and resolute, assuring them that the administration remains focused on delivering a safer, more secure future.
READ ALSO:
Some soldiers, policemen sell arms to criminals – Ribadu
NSA Nuhu Ribadu confirms investigation into Gulf of Guinea as arms trafficking route
