In a closed-door meeting between Nigerian senators and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, held on Tuesday.
The gathering, which lasted for approximately nine hours, saw the participation of key figures including security chiefs, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Olawale Edun, and Minister of Police Affairs Ibrahim Geidam.
Sources within the meeting disclosed that Mr. Ribadu took the lead in presenting crucial information, with contributions from security chiefs and ministers.
Mr. Ribadu’s presentation covered various aspects of national security, particularly focusing on terrorism and armed groups across the country, as well as the government’s efforts to address these challenges.
Terrorism in the North-east was a significant topic, with Mr. Ribadu reporting a notable decrease in Boko Haram activities, attributing this decline to aggressive military operations and internal conflicts among insurgent factions.
He highlighted a shift in tactics among insurgents towards softer attacks and the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Regarding ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province), Mr. Ribadu emphasized a strategic shift in their tactics, with the majority of attacks being defensive rather than offensive.
He credited ongoing counter-terrorism strategies for this change, indicating success in altering the group’s operational dynamics.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Borno State Government, Mr. Ribadu expressed gratitude for their support in enhancing security measures.
Turning to IPOB (Indigenous People of Biafra) agitations, Mr. Ribadu noted significant progress in reducing attacks through a combination of forceful and non-violent measures.
He highlighted a 75% decrease in attacks in the South-east within six months, attributing previous unrest to the destruction of police stations during the last administration.
The issue of armed groups in the South-east, including IPOB, has been extensively covered, with the government attributing attacks to IPOB despite the group’s denial, suggesting the presence of multiple armed factions in the region.
Addressing separatist agitations, Mr. Ribadu emphasized the need for a multifaceted approach, incorporating immediate security measures and long-term strategies to address underlying grievances.
He stressed the importance of regional cooperation and international support in combating destabilizing forces.
Regarding banditry in the North-west and North-central regions, Mr. Ribadu reported a significant improvement, citing a 45% decrease in banditry incidents.
He highlighted the return of communities to farming activities and the successful release of over 700 kidnap victims in the North-west.
Despite these claims, recent attacks by bandits in North-western states have continued, underscoring the persistent threat posed by armed groups in the region.
Mr. Ribadu also addressed the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALWs), citing the recovery and destruction of over 5,000 military-grade rifles and the interception of numerous gun-running networks.
He emphasized the role of good governance in resolving security challenges, highlighting the link between poverty, unemployment, and insecurity.
Following the meeting, Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed satisfaction with the government’s efforts to address the security situation, affirming the senators’ confidence in the security chiefs.
In conclusion, Mr. Ribadu’s disclosures shed light on the complexities of Nigeria’s security landscape and underscore the multifaceted approach required to address these challenges effectively.
