Nigerians Rate NSA Nuhu Ribadu Highly on Security Performance
By: Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu
Northern Bureau Chief
November 17, 2024
When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Malam Nuhu Ribadu as the National Security Adviser in 2023, the nation was grappling with one of its most dire security crises. Bandits and terrorist groups held entire communities in Northern Nigeria under siege, with abductions for ransom, killings, rapes, and torture becoming disturbingly commonplace. Many Nigerians were losing hope as insecurity paralyzed daily life, particularly in the Northwest and parts of the North-Central regions.
However, Ribadu’s entry into the national security arena has proven to be a turning point. Within a remarkably short period, his strategic coordination and professionalism have yielded transformative results. Communities once terrorized by non-state militias have begun to experience peace and stability. States like Katsina, Sokoto, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna, which bore the brunt of these heinous activities, are witnessing the liberation of towns and villages that were once no-go areas.
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Ribadu’s approach to national security has been characterized by his ability to synchronize the efforts of the military, paramilitary forces, intelligence agencies, and local security outfits. Under his leadership, the Army, Air Force, Police, DSS, NSO, NSCDC, and even indigenous non-formal security vanguards, including hunters, have worked in unison to neutralize notorious criminals.
Halilu Sububu, a feared terrorist who had terrorized Katsina, Niger, and Zamfara states, was eliminated, Buhari Alhaji Halidu, infamously known as “Buharin Yadi,” was neutralized, bringing relief to countless communities.
Dangote, another bandit kingpin, was killed during a gun battle.
Boderi Isyaku, responsible for high-profile attacks, including the kidnapping of 39 students from the Federal College of Forestry Mechanisation and the assault on the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna in 2021, met his end.
Other notorious criminals such as Dogo Rabe, Alhaji Auta, Kachalla Ruga, Rufai Maikaji, and Ya’u, known for their brutal reigns, were also neutralized in precision strikes and coordinated offensives.
These victories have been achieved through robust intelligence gathering, swift interventions in life-threatening situations, and the dismantling of criminal networks. Ribadu’s deft coordination has ensured that security operations are both surgical and effective, minimizing collateral damage and maximizing impact.
The ripple effects of Ribadu’s successes are being felt far and wide. Rural communities, market women, and business people in Zamfara and other affected states have expressed their joy and relief at the improved security situation. For years, many of these individuals were unable to farm, trade, or even move freely due to the pervasive threat of banditry. Today, they are beginning to reclaim their livelihoods and rebuild their lives, thanks to Ribadu’s leadership.
Nigerians across the country are applauding President Tinubu for appointing a seasoned professional capable of tackling the nation’s security challenges. Ribadu’s track record as a former anti-graft czar has undoubtedly played a role in his effectiveness. As the pioneer chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), he demonstrated exceptional skill in prosecuting high-profile cases, deploying his legal expertise and intelligence training to hold powerful individuals accountable.
Ribadu’s extensive background in law enforcement, intelligence operations, and community engagement has been instrumental in his ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex security landscape. His academic qualifications, including a degree and master’s in law, combined with his training as an intelligence police operative, have equipped him with the tools necessary to manage diverse stakeholders and craft holistic solutions to security challenges.
Malam Nuhu Ribadu has not only proven himself as an adept leader but also as a symbol of hope for a nation yearning for peace. His commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians, particularly in the most affected regions, is a testament to his professionalism, resilience, and deep understanding of the intricacies of national security.
As the victories against banditry and terrorism continue to pile up, Nigerians are reminded that with the right leadership, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome. Ribadu’s tenure is shaping up to be a defining chapter in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity, offering a brighter and more secure future for all.
Nigerians, particularly those from the northern region, have expressed widespread approval for the performance of Malam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Many believe that Ribadu has achieved remarkable success in tackling longstanding security challenges that his predecessors struggled to address, earning him a reputation as a man of great wisdom and effective coordination with security agencies, both domestically and internationally.
Ribadu has been lauded for his decisive actions against insecurity, including neutralizing top bandit leaders, halting mass abductions of students in northern schools, securing rail lines, and curbing kidnappings along major northern highways. His efforts have brought significant relief to communities once plagued by these threats.
The NSA has led coordinated efforts to neutralize notorious bandit leaders and restore safety on northern highways previously infamous for kidnappings. Unlike previous administrations, Ribadu has ensured that all abducted schoolchildren were rescued without the payment of ransom, signaling a significant shift in approach and efficiency.
Improved Rail Security: Rail transport, a vital artery for trade and movement, has been secured, boosting confidence in public transportation. Ribadu’s strategies have reduced the prevalence of farmers-herders clashes by an impressive 70%, fostering peace in once volatile regions.
The NSA has ensured prompt responses to terrorist attacks on critical infrastructure, such as power lines, mitigating the impact of such incidents.
Wider Impact on National Security. Beyond the northern region, Ribadu’s efforts have also extended to the Niger Delta, where improved security has boosted oil production and stabilized the economy. He has also taken measures to control the circulation of small arms and light weapons, which were previously fueling violence across the country.
Many Nigerians believe that Ribadu’s leadership is setting new benchmarks in the fight against insecurity. Critics of the administration are entitled to their opinions, but Ribadu’s results speak for themselves. A resident from Zamfara noted, “Nuhu Ribadu has achieved what many of his predecessors could not despite the billions spent on defense and security in the past. The NSA has assured residents of Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara, and parts of Niger State that the persistent threat from Lakurawa bandits will soon become a thing of the past. His assurance reflects a broader determination to restore peace across all regions.
Despite the limited number of security personnel in the country, Ribadu has optimized available resources to strengthen Nigeria’s security apparatus. His collaboration with local and international security agencies has been key to his success.
Under President Tinubu’s administration, the approach to security is markedly different. Criminals are disarmed, some have surrendered, and others are being apprehended, signaling a no-nonsense stance against those who disturb the nation’s peace. Nigerians believe that with Ribadu at the helm, the nation’s security challenges will continue to diminish. His dedication and strategic vision have inspired confidence that the current administration is serious about ensuring lasting peace and stability.
This set of leadership in the security sector is different. They are serious people, and as long as Nuhu Ribadu remains the National Security Adviser, Nigeria will succeed. The journey to a safer Nigeria is not yet complete, but Ribadu’s unparalleled achievements thus far have set a strong foundation for continued progress.
