Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello has commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, over what he described as growing gains in the fight against insecurity across the country.
Mr Bello spoke on Friday after a meeting with Mr Ribadu at the Office of the National Security Adviser, ONSA, in Abuja.
The former governor said the recent foiling of an attempted abduction of schoolchildren in Kogi State demonstrated the level of support the state continued to receive from the federal government.
He attributed the successful operation to the vigilance, professionalism and improved coordination among security agencies, saying intelligence-driven operations were producing positive results.
“I want to use this opportunity to commend Mr President and our leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his relentless efforts in tackling insecurity across the nation,” Mr Bello said.
“I also want to commend him and your humble self on the recent foiling of an attempted abduction of schoolchildren in Kogi State, which underscores the level of support the state continues to receive from the Federal Government.
“I attribute the successful operation to the vigilance, professionalism and improved coordination among the nation’s security agencies, which is clear evidence that intelligence-driven security operations are yielding positive results.”
Mr Bello also praised Mr Ribadu for providing strategic leadership and strengthening collaboration among security and intelligence agencies.
According to him, the synergy among the agencies under the NSA’s coordination had improved the country’s capacity to respond swiftly to emerging security threats.
He said the Tinubu administration’s investment in intelligence gathering, security coordination and operational support had strengthened the morale and effectiveness of security personnel.
The former governor also commended the president, the NSA and security agencies over the recent rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State.
“Mr President also deserves commendation for the recent rescue of the abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State,” he said.
“I equally commend you, my brother, the National Security Adviser, and, of course, the security agencies for your painstaking efforts, professionalism and determination in securing the safe release of the victims.”
Mr Bello paid tribute to security personnel who died during the rescue operation, describing their courage and sacrifice as evidence of their commitment to protecting the country.
“Their courage and selflessness remain a testament to their unwavering commitment to the defence of our country,” he said.
Responding, Mr Ribadu thanked the former governor for the visit and stressed that addressing insecurity required collective responsibility and cooperation among citizens, governments and security agencies.
“I want to warmly welcome you to my office this afternoon, my brother,” Mr Ribadu said.
“The issue of insecurity concerns everyone in this country, and I believe that if we all play our part at our various levels, we shall overcome insecurity in Nigeria.”
Mr Bello urged Nigerians to support the federal government and security agencies by remaining vigilant and providing timely and credible information that could assist security operations.
He expressed confidence that the country would continue to record progress in tackling criminality under President Tinubu’s leadership and with Mr Ribadu’s strategic guidance.
He said the ongoing security reforms and improved inter-agency collaboration were laying the foundation for lasting peace, stability and national development.