Johnson Dairo Daniel 08032229630
The appointment of Nuhu Ribadu as Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA) in June 2023 marked a pivotal moment in the country’s security landscape. Ribadu, a seasoned security expert, entered office with a clear mission: to restore peace and order in Nigeria, aligning the nation with global standards of safety and security.
Ribadu’s extensive background as a retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police and former Executive Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) uniquely prepared him for the task. With deep knowledge of Nigeria’s internal security architecture and expertise in intelligence gathering, he brought a wealth of experience to the role.
At the time of his appointment, Nigeria faced severe security challenges. In the North-East, Boko Haram insurgency had devastated communities, while bandits and kidnappers wreaked havoc in the North-West. The South battled attacks on security personnel, and even the Federal Capital Territory was not spared from criminal activities.
Ribadu wasted no time in addressing these challenges. He prioritized strengthening Nigeria’s security institutions, fostering regional and international cooperation, and curbing the proliferation of illicit arms. Under his leadership, the NSA’s office partnered with the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the German Embassy in Nigeria to implement comprehensive police reforms, supporting the Special Presidential Committee on Police Reform.
Intelligence gathering, surveillance, and strategic communication became central to Ribadu’s approach. His innovative strategies focused on preventing security breaches and neutralizing threats, with a particular emphasis on leveraging technology and fostering collaboration with global partners. Ribadu also championed community-based initiatives, engaging traditional leaders, civil society organizations, and local groups to promote peace and cooperation.
Ribadu’s first year as NSA has been marked by significant progress. In the Niger Delta, crude oil production has increased steadily, signaling economic recovery in the region. Over 40 police stations destroyed in the South-East have been rebuilt and reactivated, and several notorious bandit leaders, including Halilu Sububu and Abubakar Mainok, have been neutralized.
The North-East, once a hotbed of terror, is now experiencing stability and reconstruction. Farmer-herder clashes in the North-Central region have significantly reduced. Since Ribadu assumed office, over 4,600 hostages have been rescued, more than 9,000 terrorists and criminals have been neutralized, and over 7,000 arrests have been made. Large quantities of weapons and ammunition have also been recovered.
Ribadu’s rapid response to abduction cases has been widely commended. From the rescue of Kuriga schoolchildren to the freeing of students from the Federal University of Gusau and Kogi, his decisive actions have set a new standard for Nigeria’s security operations.
Ribadu has also tackled economic threats, including cracking down on transnational financial crimes. His efforts to enforce regulations against entities like Binance reflect his commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty. Ribadu’s international networks have been instrumental in tracking and apprehending trans-border terrorists and their financiers, ensuring seamless coordination between Nigeria’s armed forces and global partners.
While Ribadu’s achievements have brought renewed hope to Nigeria’s security landscape, the task ahead remains daunting. His leadership has demonstrated that a combination of military, political, and socio-economic initiatives is crucial for sustainable progress. However, overcoming Nigeria’s security challenges requires collective effort. The government, private sector, civil society, and citizens must work together to address the root causes of insecurity, promote economic development, and foster social cohesion.
As Ribadu continues his mission, Nigerians and the international community must rally behind his vision, providing the necessary support to consolidate gains and address emerging threats. His tenure as NSA has already proven to be a game-changer, and with sustained effort, it promises a brighter, more secure future for Nigeria.
