National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has stated that the Tinubu-led administration has made significant progress in tackling the complex security issues inherited upon taking office. Speaking at the APC National Summit held to mark two years of the current government, Ribadu said many of the major threats—ranging from terrorism to banditry—have been largely brought under control.
According to him, coordinated efforts by Nigeria’s security agencies have curbed widespread violence such as mass killings, abductions, destruction of communities, and attacks on government facilities. He highlighted that prior to the current administration’s assumption of power on May 29, 2023, the country faced five major security crises.
These included Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East, rampant banditry in the North-West, IPOB/ESN secessionist movements in the South-East, unrest in the Niger Delta, and communal/herder-farmer clashes across the North Central region.
Ribadu recounted the severity of the situation before 2023, citing deadly attacks like the Abuja-Kaduna train ambush, the Kuje Prison break, the church massacre in Owo, and assaults on military formations. He noted that Boko Haram and banditry had claimed over 35,000 and 12,000 lives respectively, leaving millions displaced.
However, he reported that security agencies have since made remarkable gains. Over 13,500 Boko Haram fighters have been eliminated, more than 11,000 illegal weapons recovered and destroyed, and around 124,000 insurgents and their families have surrendered to government forces. Operations continue in areas like the Tumbuktu Triangle and surrounding islands to clear out remaining insurgent hideouts.
Ribadu acknowledged that although some challenges persist, the collaborative efforts of the security forces have led to major improvements in national security. The administration remains committed to restoring peace and stability across the country.
