ANYONE TRYING TO EXPLOIT COMMUNITIES OR MESS WITH NATIONAL SECURITY IS IN FOR REAL CONSEQUENCES- NSA

HOTJIST NEWS
Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, didn’t mince words—anyone trying to exploit communities, spread terror, or mess with national security is in for real consequences.
Ribadu spoke out on Thursday during a dialogue in Abuja about preventing violence and conflict in Northern Nigeria. The event brought together the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.
He didn’t sugarcoat things. Nigeria’s been through some seriously tough times—maybe rougher than what most countries have faced. But, against the odds, the country’s still standing. Ribadu pointed out that Nigeria has secured 775 convictions in terrorism cases.
“Each conviction isn’t just a number,” he said. “It means someone got their life back. It means a community found some peace.”
According to Ribadu, none of this happened by chance. It took government agencies, the courts, security forces, and everyday people working side by side.
Still, he warned against getting comfortable. Real peace isn’t about good speeches or nice words at conferences. What matters is turning all these ideas into real action—steps that build trust, keep people safe, and help Northern Nigeria, and the rest of the country, move forward.
Continuing, the NSA said Nigeria is the only country in the Sahel region with a functioning democracy despite the security challenges confronting the region.
“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state remains fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens. Anyone—individual or group—who exploits communities, spreads terror or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action, in line with our obligations to protect human rights and safeguard lives” he said..
Assuring that the nation’s security forces will continue to make sacrifices daily, the NSA said, “Many of our personnel do not speak about their efforts, but they work tirelessly in extremely challenging circumstances. I ask for continued prayers, understanding and patience from our religious and traditional leaders. Your moral leadership is essential and deeply appreciated”.
We’re going through some tough times right now, but this won’t last forever. All over our region—from the Sahel to East Africa to South Asia—people are dealing with the same kinds of challenges. Some places have it even harder.
Nigeria stands out as the only real democracy left in the Sahel. That’s something we can’t afford to lose. We’ll beat terror. We’ll bring back order. We’re not giving in, and we’re not backing down.
But let’s be honest, national security doesn’t just start with the federal government. Most of our problems actually begin at the local level.
Communities, religious leaders, traditional rulers, local authorities, and state governments all matter here. When people in these communities have the power to settle their own disputes and stop violence before it starts, we don’t need to send in the military as much. That makes a huge difference.
“Nigeria desires peace. Our people deserve peace. And together, with sincerity and shared responsibility, we can build the stable, prosperous and united society we all long for” he added.
