The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has affirmed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration is decisively addressing the complex security challenges inherited from previous governments.
Speaking at the 50th anniversary of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) 18 Regular Course in Abuja, Ribadu delivered a lecture titled “Veterans As Significant National Assets”, where he painted a vivid picture of Nigeria’s precarious security state in 2022. He cited crises across the insurgency-ravaged North East, banditry in the North West and North Central, oil theft in the Niger Delta, separatist tensions in the South East, and communal conflicts.
According to Ribadu, the Tinubu administration, since taking office in May 2023, has made “bold strides” in tackling five key security threats: Boko Haram insurgency, deadly banditry, separatist violence, oil theft, and communal clashes. He disclosed that over 13,500 terrorists and criminals had been neutralised and more than 124,000 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters and their families had surrendered.
Previously dangerous territories like Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad Basin, and the Timbuktu Triangle are now under government control. He also noted the rescue of over 11,250 hostages in Zamfara and Kaduna States, and the neutralisation of notorious bandit leaders such as Ali Kachalla, Halilu Sububu, and Dogo Bwari.
In the Niger Delta, Ribadu announced a resurgence in oil production, now averaging 1.8 million barrels per day, with over 1,900 illegal refineries dismantled, and oil operations resuming in Ogoniland. In the South East, “sit-at-home” orders have declined, police stations have been rebuilt, and law enforcement presence restored.
Ribadu also highlighted progress in addressing modern security threats, including cyber defence, financial intelligence, and the disruption of illegal crypto-financed terrorism. A National Digital Forensics Laboratory and Critical Infrastructure Protection Plan have been introduced to strengthen cyber resilience.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Minister of State for Defence, and Chief of Defence Staff.
