National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has assured Nigerians that the country is moving closer to a decisive end to terrorism, banditry and related security challenges, warning that anyone seeking to undermine national stability will face firm consequences.
Speaking at the national dialogue on A Whole-of-Society Approach to the Prevention of Violence and Conflict in Northern Nigeria, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre and the Office of the NSA, Ribadu said collective action remains critical to defeating insecurity.
“Nigeria has gone through difficult periods, perhaps more than many other nations, but we are still standing,” he said, stressing that citizens must work with government to “defeat the enemies of the state.”
Ribadu revealed that the country has secured 775 terrorism-related convictions, each of which, he said, “represents not just a statistic, but a life restored and a community stabilised.” He noted that such progress reflects the impact of collaboration between security agencies, the judiciary, and local communities.
But he warned against complacency. “Dialogue must translate into concrete, measurable actions that strengthen resilience, rebuild trust and improve security across northern Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
He added that Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the Sahel, saying government remains fully committed to law, order and human rights. “Anyone who exploits communities, spreads terror or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action,” Ribadu stressed.
While acknowledging the sacrifices of security forces, Ribadu said the country is going through a painful period — but one that will pass. “We will defeat terror. We will restore order. We will not give up, and we will not surrender,” he said, calling for continued prayers and support from religious and traditional leaders.
He emphasised that national security must begin at the local level, noting that many of Nigeria’s security challenges stem from community-based disputes. “When communities are empowered to resolve their own disputes and prevent violence, the need for deployment of armed forces reduces significantly,” he added.
Meanwhile, newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, General Musa, told reporters at the State House that Nigerians can now “sleep with their two eyes closed.” He assured that farmers would safely return to their farmlands, while schools could operate without fear.
“There will be synergy between the armed forces and other security agencies… within the shortest possible time, Nigerians will see results,” Musa said. He pledged to “work whatever it takes to ensure that Nigeria is secured.”
At the ceremony, Bishop Matthew Kukah of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto expressed optimism that the country’s security architecture is now in capable hands. “Normalcy needs to return to our country. Laughter and joy have to come back to Nigeria within the shortest time possible,” Kukah said, adding that the President appears set on repositioning national security.
He noted that he attended the event representing both the Catholic Diocese and the Sultanate Council. “He [Musa] was born in Sokoto, and I’m in Sokoto. He is from Southern Kaduna, and I was born in Southern Kaduna,” he said, adding that the Sultan sent his greetings.
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