President Bola Tinubu has instructed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, to urgently address the growing insecurity in Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states.
The directive came during a meeting held on Wednesday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where President Tinubu met with the NSA and service chiefs. He expressed strong concern over what he called the “senseless killings” of innocent citizens and emphasized the need for immediate intervention.
“Enough is enough,” Tinubu declared, condemning the continued violence in various regions. His comments were shared in a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The President also called for a complete overhaul of the country’s security framework, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring stability, especially in the areas most affected by conflict.
Following the meeting, NSA Ribadu told reporters that the President had been thoroughly briefed by security leaders on the extent of destruction and casualties in the affected states. Ribadu added that even during Tinubu’s recent foreign engagements in Paris and London, he remained in close contact with security officials, offering guidance and receiving updates.
“We were given the opportunity to brief Mr. President in detail. It was a lengthy session, and we updated him on all recent developments,” Ribadu said.
He also noted that Tinubu had earlier directed top security personnel to visit the affected states, consult with local authorities, and assess the conditions firsthand. These field visits, particularly to Borno, Benue, and Plateau, have been completed, and findings were presented to the President.
Ribadu emphasized the importance of local collaboration in combating insecurity. “Security challenges often begin at the community level. Local governments and community leaders must be actively involved,” he said. He also stated that President Tinubu had tasked them with working more closely with state governors.
The meeting included representatives from the armed forces, police, and intelligence community. Ribadu pointed out that recent attacks often involved the use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and were occurring in areas with limited government presence or weak security infrastructure.
According to Ribadu, the President issued a firm directive: end the killings, restore law and order, and ensure the safety of every Nigerian citizen.