The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the newly sworn-in Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd), have assured Nigerians that the Federal Government is committed to decisively confronting terrorists, restoring order, and ensuring lasting peace across the country.
Ribadu issued the warning in Abuja at a dialogue on the whole-of-society approach to preventing violence and conflict in Northern Nigeria, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
He said Nigeria has recorded 775 terrorism-related convictions, stressing that each conviction “represents a life restored and a community stabilised.” Ribadu warned that anyone attempting to undermine national security would face coordinated action.
He added that sustainable peace required translating dialogue into actionable steps that build trust and strengthen community resilience. He emphasised that Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the Sahel and must be protected.
Security Begins at Local Level — NSA
Ribadu noted that most security challenges originate from local issues and urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, community heads, and state governments to take stronger roles in preventing violence.
“Nigeria desires peace. Our people deserve peace. With sincerity and shared responsibility, we can build a stable and united society,” he said.
Tinubu Swears in Gen. Musa as Defence Minister
President Bola Tinubu, while swearing in Gen. Musa as Minister of Defence, charged him to strengthen synergy among the armed forces, accelerate reforms, and enhance welfare and cooperation among security agencies.
The President said the defence ministry must sustain ongoing joint operations and ensure transparency in military procurement.
Musa, a former Chief of Defence Staff, vowed to restore the central role of the defence ministry in national security. He said his priority is to ensure Nigerians sleep with both eyes closed, return to their farms safely, and live without fear.
“Nigerians have shown me love, and I will work, whatever it takes, to ensure that Nigeria is secure. Within the shortest possible time, Nigerians will see results,” he assured.
Flush Out Terrorists — Bishop Kukah
Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, who attended the ceremony, urged the new minister to “flush out terrorists” and restore normalcy nationwide.
Kukah expressed confidence in Musa’s capacity, saying the security situation is “in very good hands.” He added that Nigerians urgently need the return of peace and joy.
Kwara Monarch Still in Captivity
Meanwhile, the abducted monarch of Bayagan-Ile community in Kwara State, Alhaji Rafiu Salami, remains in captivity five days after his kidnapping.
Community spokesperson, Alhaji Rafiu Lawal, dismissed reports that the monarch had been rescued, confirming he personally spoke with him on December 4 and that he was still being held by the abductors.
He warned the public against spreading unverified information and said the community was focused on negotiating ransom for his release.
Five Kidnapped Rivers Students Rescued
In Rivers State, police have rescued five students of Rivers State University (RSU) abducted from their residences on the RSU Satellite Campus in Emohua.
Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the victims—Prince London, Azubuike Kelechukwu, Elizabeth Aniete, Onyebuchi Precious, and London Sampson—were rescued unhurt during a tactical operation in Rumuodogo 2, Emohua Local Government Area.
They have been taken to the hospital for medical examination, while efforts to apprehend the fleeing kidnappers are ongoing.
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