Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has said land border surveillance has improved by over 60 percent despite widespread killings across the country.
Ribadu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to bolstering internal security and ensuring that perpetrators of violence face justice both within and beyond Nigeria’s borders.
Mallam Ribadu, who was represented by the director of Legal Services at the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), Zakari Mijinyawa, spoke during the maiden edition of the Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum.
Ribadu revealed the significant strides in national security efforts.
He disclosed that over 1,000 illegal refineries have been dismantled by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
He also noted enhanced security at airports through the deployment of new electronic gates.
He commended the bravery of Nigeria’s security forces and community volunteers, including members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, for their critical role in liberating communities and rescuing victims of violence and abduction.
He emphasised the crucial role of the media in fostering unity, urging journalists to uphold national interest through responsible reporting.
“Responsible journalism is a national duty,” he said, cautioning against the spread of misinformation and fake news.
Addressing Nigeria’s youth, Ribadu called on them to take active leadership roles in shaping the nation’s future. “The time to lead is now, not tomorrow,” he said, encouraging young people to use their platforms and talents to promote peace, vigilance, and national cohesion.
In his remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, reiterated the urgent need for national unity and citizen collaboration to overcome Nigeria’s security challenges, insisting that the country remains resilient despite threats and negative narratives.
He said “No one will come from outside to liberate Nigeria. If the military fails, the nation fails, but Nigeria will not fail.
“Nigeria is blessed with abundant mineral and natural resources, but unless we work together as a people, we will not realise the full potential of this great nation.”
He stressed the critical role of the media in combating misinformation and disinformation, warning that the spread of falsehoods undermines national cohesion.
“We live in a time where people celebrate failure. Some don’t understand that when the economy collapses, everyone is affected; they have failed too.”
General Musa highlighted the enduring unity of the armed forces, describing it as a family whose loyalty transcends life.
He made a heartfelt appeal, “Support your military. Don’t allow our enemies to divide us. When we stand united, we defeat those who want to see this country fall.”
Acknowledging the ongoing security volatility, he said victory is possible through public cooperation.
“It is the silence of citizens that enables terrorists to thrive. Ask yourself, who is feeding them? Who supplies their ammunition? Do you want to become a refugee in your own country?
“This forum is timely, as it allows citizens to hear directly from their leaders and to counter the flood of misinformation. Some wish to see Nigeria disintegrate; we must never allow that.”
He urged Nigerians to support the military, especially those who have suffered permanent injuries or paid the ultimate price defending the nation. “Our soldiers are heroes. Many have lost limbs, lives, and loved ones. They have sacrificed so we can enjoy the democracy we have today. We must never forget them.
“When a soldier dies and you rejoice, when your nation’s security collapses, you no longer have a home.”
He reminded Nigerians that while the military recruits ordinary citizens, not angels, there are systems in place to refine and discipline them.
“Yes, they come with baggage, but we have mechanisms to fish out bad elements.”
As he reflected on Nigeria’s present reality, he asked, “How did we get here? And how did the world let us get here? We must accept responsibility.”
General Musa concluded with a passionate call to patriotism, unity, and self-determination.
“No country is without security challenges, but other nations are protecting their borders, their people, and their integrity. We must do the same. Let us tell our own stories; no one else should define us. Together, we shall build a united Nigeria that works.”
