Don’t Politicise National Security, Arewa Youths Warn

Arewa Youth Assembly (AYA) has reiterated its support and confidence in Nigeria’s current crop of security chiefs, cautioning against what it described as attempts by “unpatriotic elements” to politicise matters of national security for personal and financial gain.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, the publicity secretary of the Assembly, Aliyu Muhammad, condemned recent calls for the removal of service chiefs, insisting such actions are not only misguided but dangerous to the ongoing efforts to stabilise the country.

According to him, replacing the nation’s security leadership at this critical juncture would amount to a “reckless and momentous mistake” that could reverse gains made in the fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality.

“Our nation’s security should not be politicised in any way. A sudden change in the security architecture would interrupt stability and continuity, and create openings for insurgents while new Service Chiefs try to find their footing,” the statement read.

The group claimed that certain individuals with “myopic knowledge” of security affairs were spreading misinformation and engaging in “serial blackmail” for selfish purposes, and urged Nigerians to disregard such voices.

Highlighting the achievements of the security agencies under the current leadership, the group listed several milestones including: “Decisive counter-insurgency operations in the North-East leading to the elimination of several high-ranking Boko Haram and ISWAP commanders.

“Degradation of bandit strongholds in forested areas across Zamfara, Kaduna, and Niger states.

“Successful rescues of kidnapped individuals and arrests of thousands of criminal suspects nationwide.

“Enhanced civil-military relations through medical outreach and development programs in conflict zones.

“Significant reduction in crude oil theft via improved surveillance and destruction of illegal refineries in the Niger Delta.

“Improved inter-agency intelligence sharing, contributing to the prevention of coordinated attacks and threats.”

The Assembly noted that these strides are in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly as it relates to security and stability across the country.

Rather than dismissing the service chiefs, the Arewa Youth Assembly called on Nigerians to channel their efforts towards supporting, encouraging, and funding the security agencies to sustain and deepen their successes.

“Our collective energy must be invested in supporting these gallant officers who have sacrificed their comfort and lives for our peace and security,” the group added.

The AYA concluded by urging citizens to rise above political sentiments and contribute to the fight against terrorism and criminality, emphasising patriotism, unity, and vigilance as vital tools in preserving national security.