The federal government has assured Nigerians that it will defeat terrorism, banditry and other security challenges confronting the country.
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, gave the assurance on Thursday during a 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 National Security Adviser (ONSA), in Abuja.
Ribadu warned that any individual or group who attempts to exploit communities, spread terror or undermine national security will face decisive action.
He emphasised the significance of citizens’ participation in ending insecurity, urging them to cooperate collectively with the government to defeat the enemies of the state.
The NSA said Nigeria has gone through difficult periods, perhaps more than many other nations, but still standing.
He noted that Nigeria has recorded 775 convictions in terrorism related prosecution “each one representing not just a statistic, but a life restored and a community stabilised,
According to Ribadu, these achievements reflect what becomes possible when government institutions, the judiciary, security agencies, and communities work together in good faith.
“But we must not be complacent. Sustainable peace requires that dialogues like this do not end with speeches.
“We must translate discussions into concrete, measurable actions that strengthen resilience, rebuild trust, and improve security across northern Nigeria and beyond,” he said.
According to him, Nigeria is the only country in the Sahel region with a functioning democracy, and would remain fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens.
“Anyone, individual or group, who exploits communities, spreads terror or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action, in line with our obligations to protect human rights and safeguard lives,” Ribadu said.
The NSA assured that the nation’s security forces will continue to make sacrifices daily, adding that our security personnel work tirelessly in extremely challenging circumstances to keep the country safe
He said, “We are going through painful times, but this phase will pass. Nations across our region—from the Sahel to East Africa and South Asia—face similar or even more protracted challenges.
“Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel, and we must protect that achievement. We will defeat terror. We will restore order. We will not give up, and we will not surrender,
“I ask for continued prayers, understanding and patience from our religious and traditional leaders. Your moral leadership is essential and deeply appreciated.”
Ribadu stressed that national security does not begin at the federal level, adding that most of the problems we face are rooted in local dynamics.
He emphasized that communities, religious leaders, traditional rulers, local government authorities and state governments have critical roles to play in ensuring security.
“When communities are empowered to resolve their own disputes and prevent violence, the need for deployment of armed forces reduces significantly,” he said.
