By ABAH ADAH, Abuja
As Nigeria ushers in the New Year, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has sent greetings to the citizens, assuring of enhanced security in the the new year.
Ribadu in a statement signed by the National Coordinator, National Counter-terrorism Center, Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA) acknowledged the resilience of the nation in the face of security challenges and emphasised the critical role of our collective effort in ensuring peace and stability.
He equally attributed the successes achieved in Year 2024 to the exceptional leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose political will he said had extensively sustained security efforts across the Nation.
Appreciating the President for his strategic guidance and untiring support to the ONSA in the fight against terrorism and other violent crimes the NSA said the supports provided the foundation for the progress made in enhancing national security.
Mallam Ribadu noted that the collective vigilance and cooperation of Nigerians have been instrumental in the fight against terrorism, violent extremism, and other security threats, stressing that the successes recorded in the efforts to enhancing national security was deeply rooted in the cooperation of Nigerians, dedication of members of the Armed Forces, security agencies as well as the intelligence community.
To men and women of the Armed Forces, police, and other security and intelligence agencies he said, “Your sacrifices in the front lines despite the harshest conditions, demonstrate staunch patriotism, courage, and dedication to safeguarding the Nation’s sovereignty and security as he also saluted their families who bear the weight of their absence with such steadfast support and love.
He said even though the year 2024 brought its share of security challenges, including the resurgence of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in the Northwest and acts of sabotage on critical national infrastructure, such as power transmission lines by non-state actors, the tireless efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and security agencies in containing these threats and preventing further occurrences were commendable.
“These achievements would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the National Assembly, the judiciary, and state governors, whose commitment to strengthening our policy and legal frameworks across all levels of government have been critical in advancing our national security objectives,” he said.
Your steadfast dedication and proactive engagement have also contributed immensely to effective decision-making and the successes recorded.
I also commend the exemplary leadership, foresight, and dedication of the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police, Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Director General of the Department of State Services, Chief of Defence Intelligence, and the heads of other security and intelligence agencies for their unparalleled contributions to safeguarding our dear Nation.
“Your sacrifices, tireless efforts, and dedication to duty do not go unnoticed. They are deeply appreciated and serve as a source of inspiration to all Nigerians.
“Additionally, the support of various ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as civil society organisations and international partners has played a pivotal role in advancing our shared goals of national security and stability. We therefore remain steadfast in our resolve to protect the Nation and assure Nigerians of our tenacious commitment to ensuring their safety and security.
“Security is everyone’s responsibility. The fight against terrorism and criminality cannot be won without the active participation of citizens. I therefore implore you to promptly report any suspicious activities, movements, or characters to the appropriate authorities. If you see something, say something,” he said.
Looking to 2025, Ribadu reassures Nigerians of the renewed focus on combating terrorism, violent extremism and other serious organised crimes through enhanced collaboration, innovative strategies, and proactive measures.
He highlighted recent advancements, including the operationalisation of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell at the National Counter Terrorism Centre developed with support from the United Kingdom National Crime Agency to address kidnapping and related crimes.
According to him, dedicated emergency numbers will be made available to facilitate timely reporting and intervention.
The National Security Adviser also calls on all security stakeholders and citizens to redouble their efforts in building a safer and more secure Nation. He stresses that the dedication of our Armed Forces, security agencies, and intelligence community, coupled with the active support of every Nigerian, will ensure that we overcome the challenges ahead.