The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, have highlighted key strides made by the Federal Government in tackling insecurity since the inception of the President Bola Tinubu administration.
Both top security officials spoke during a plenary session at the two-day Interactive Session on Government–Citizens’ Engagement, held in Kaduna on Tuesday.
‘Nigeria Had to Be Secured First’ – Ribadu
Delivering an overview of Nigeria’s security situation before May 29, 2023, Ribadu said the country had grappled with over two decades of persistent insecurity, including militancy in the Niger Delta, Boko Haram insurgency, banditry, separatist agitations, and communal clashes.
“Before we came in, bandits were in control in parts of the North-Central and other areas, killing people weekly, burning villages and communities,” he said.
“There were high-profile attacks and mass casualties. We knew we had to secure the nation first.”
Ribadu noted that through coordinated efforts, the government had traced, identified, and neutralised many of the criminal groups.
He cited significant improvements in the Niger Delta, stating that crude oil production had risen from around 1 million barrels per day to over 1.9 million, largely due to security stability.
“We have stopped those that wanted to divide Nigeria. Kaduna is now about 80 percent free from banditry.
Communities that were once under siege now enjoy relief,” he added.
He emphasized President Tinubu’s directive that security agencies must collaborate, not compete. This, he said, has enhanced joint operations and improved intelligence sharing across the military, police, and intelligence services.
Ribadu also revealed that many former bandits had surrendered and were undergoing reintegration, while others still in custody were being investigated thoroughly.
“You can now drive freely across Kaduna—places like Kandawa, Dubali, and Sabon Gari have been liberated. The reports from the Army are remarkable,” he said.
CDS Musa: Armed Forces Committed to Total Security
In his remarks, Gen. Christopher Musa reiterated the armed forces’ commitment to restoring peace and stability across the Northern region and beyond.
“We will go after any enemy of the state until there is tranquility. Our approach is built on professionalism, collaboration, and collective action,” Musa stated.
He highlighted the importance of community engagement, stressing that citizens play a vital role in supporting security efforts, especially in border regions where threats often originate.
“Our borders remain porous. We need community members to help identify and report criminal elements crossing into Nigeria,” he urged.
Musa also emphasized the need to fully engage Nigerian youths, noting that addressing the root causes of radicalisation and criminality was essential to consolidating security gains.
He acknowledged the effectiveness of joint operations, including contributions by the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies, in sustaining peace efforts.
Call for Citizens’ Support
Both Ribadu and Musa called for continued citizens’ cooperation, urging the public to trust and support the ongoing efforts of security agencies.
“President Tinubu has given us a clear mandate: restore order, bring stability, and return dignity to the lives of Nigerians,” Ribadu concluded.
“We have made significant progress, but this is a journey that requires the support of every Nigerian.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the plenary was part of broader efforts to strengthen citizen-government dialogue and build consensus around national security strategies.
