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NSA Ribadu Steers First US–Nigeria Inaugural Working Group Meeting


The United States and Nigeria on Thursday sought to steady and recalibrate their security and diplomatic relationship, holding the first session of the US-Nigeria Joint Working Group established to address the US’ designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act.

The meeting, held in Abuja on January 22, brought together senior officials from both governments in what was described as a deliberate effort to “work in close partnership” to reduce violence against vulnerable groups, particularly Christian communities, while ensuring that all Nigerians are able to practise their faith without fear.

In a joint statement issued at the end of the session, both sides said the Working Group would focus on curbing attacks by “terrorists, separatists, bandits, and criminal militias” and creating a more secure and inclusive environment across the country.

Nigeria’s delegation was led by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, who coordinated representatives from 10 ministries and agencies, while the US delegation was headed by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Allison Hooker, alongside officials from eight federal agencies.

The discussions, according to the statement, covered a broad range of security and governance challenges where closer cooperation could “improve religious freedom and bolster security across the country.” Both governments also took time to underline the historical depth of the bilateral relationship, noting that it is “grounded on shared values of pluralism, respect for rule of law and sovereignty.”

The US side welcomed what it described as Nigeria’s “realignment of resources to address insecurity,” with particular attention to the North Central states, where violence against civilians has drawn sustained international concern. The two governments reiterated what they called a “strong and unflinching commitment” to religious freedom and agreed on the need for “active, sustained measures” to protect freedom of religion, expression and peaceful assembly, in line with Nigeria’s constitution.

In a statement, Mal. Ribadu noted that:

"These sustained engagements reflect a mature, trust-based relationship focused on protecting civilians, promoting religious freedom, and addressing shared security challenges.

“Nigeria approaches this platform as a practical, results-oriented partnership. Since late 2025, cooperation with the United States has moved beyond dialogue to tangible outcomes, strengthening coordination, accountability, and our collective capacity to counter violent threats while upholding the protection of civilians.”

Participants at the session also emphasised the protection of civilians and the importance of holding perpetrators of violence accountable, especially in cases involving attacks on vulnerable Christian communities.

On security cooperation, both sides reaffirmed their resolve to deepen counter-terrorism collaboration, including through operational coordination, access to technology, anti-money laundering efforts, counter-terrorism financing measures, and enhanced law-enforcement and investigative capacity.

Notably, the US delegation commended Nigeria for what it called “urgent actions to strengthen security for at-risk Christian communities and Nigerians of all faiths whose safety is put in jeopardy by violence and terrorism.”

The meeting builds on a series of high-level engagements convened by Mal. Ribadu in recent weeks, which officials say have helped maintain diplomatic balance while Nigeria presses its case on security reforms.

Both sides agreed that the next session of the Working Group will be held in the United States on a date to be determined through diplomatic channels.

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NSA Ribadu Mourns Passing of Aunt

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has mourned the passing of his aunt, Hajja Mamma Sulaiman Ribadu, while clarifying that reports circulating online about the death of his mother are false.

In a brief statement made available to the public, Ribadu said he had been “inundated with calls and messages from friends and associates following an inaccurate online publication claiming that my mother passed away on Monday, 19 January 2026.” While expressing gratitude for the outpouring of sympathy, he described the report as “false and misleading,” noting that “my mother of blessed memory passed away 28 years ago and therefore could not have died on Monday.”

The NSA explained that the deceased was in fact “Hajja Mamma Sulaiman Ribadu, the wife of my late uncle,” who passed away on Monday. He offered prayers for her repose, saying: “May Allah SWT forgive her shortcomings, bless her soul, and grant her Aljannat Firdaus.”

He also expressed appreciation to well-wishers, adding, “We are deeply grateful to everyone who has stood by our family during this loss. May Allah SWT reward you all abundantly.”

Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, a former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most prominent figures in anti-corruption and security reform. Since his appointment as National Security Adviser, he has played a central role in reshaping Nigeria’s security architecture and deepening strategic partnerships, particularly with the United States.

Under his watch, security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States has strengthened through enhanced intelligence sharing, counterterrorism collaboration, and coordinated efforts to combat transnational crime, positioning Nigeria as a more reliable partner in regional and global security.

From Concern to Collaboration: How Nigeria Went from U.S. CPC to US Security Partner

When the United States, in late October 2025, designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC) under the International Religious Freedom Act, many in Nigeria were worried. The CPC label — traditionally applied to states perceived to engage in or tolerate systematic religious freedom violations — carried the tacit threat of sanctions and even military intervention. Nigeria, already beleaguered by insurgency, banditry, and communal violence, could not be welcoming of the prospect of external pressure at an already fragile time.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu entrusted his National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, with the task of navigating this diplomatic storm — to ensure that Nigeria’s narrative, interests, and sovereignty were firmly communicated to the United States government. What followed was an uncommonly robust and disciplined sequence of engagements that would steadily transform what threatened to be a diplomatic crisis into a platform for deepened security cooperation.

Mal. Ribadu’s first major diplomatic engagement unfolded in late November 2025, when he led a high-level Nigerian delegation to the United States.

Over several days in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C., Ribadu and his team held multiple meetings with key American institutions and officials, including members of the U.S. Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and notably, the Department of War. These engagements, beyond defending Nigeria’s record were to reset a conversation that was imbalanced against the country. The Nigerian delegation explicitly refuted allegations of widespread religious persecution, stressing that violent attacks in Nigeria cut across religious and ethnic lines, and underscored that the security crisis was a complex blend of terrorism, banditry, and criminality—not a sectarian failure of governance.

At a critical moment during this tour, Ribadu met directly with U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. This meeting was pivotal: at a time when the United States was publicly talking about “horrific violence against Christians” in Nigeria, Ribadu articulated Nigeria’s position, emphasising the shared threat posed by extremist actors such as Boko Haram, Islamic State affiliates, and bandit groups. That exchange seemed to mark a turning point in the tone of the US government, from one that was earlier unilaterally critical to one of mutual security concern and dialogue.

Mal. Ribadu’s delegation’s efforts bore immediate fruit. By late November, the United States and Nigeria had agreed on the establishment of a Joint Working Group—a structured mechanism designed to unify and coordinate bilateral security cooperation. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved Mal. Ribadu’s leadership of the Nigerian side of this Joint Working Group, which was comprised of senior officials from defence, intelligence, foreign affairs, police, and humanitarian agencies.

Back on home soil in early December 2025, the impact of Mal. Ribadu’s engagements in Washington remained visible. A delegation of U.S. lawmakers arrived in Abuja and met Mal. Ribadu and other Nigerian security officials. The visit was framed as a strategic fact-finding and partnership mission, signalling that American interest in Nigeria’s internal security dynamics was growing deeper rather, and far away from the earlier punitive intentions President Trump suggested. Mal. Ribadu used this platform to further articulate Nigeria’s security posture and to reinforce the imperative of partnership over parochial narratives.

These diplomatic efforts laid the groundwork for events that would follow with both operational and symbolic significance.

On 25 December 2025, the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted airstrikes in Northwest Nigeria—precisely in some areas around Sokoto State—against positions associated with Islamic State militants and allied groups. Rather than unilateral action, this was a coordinated strike executed with Nigeria’s consent and with intelligence support from Nigerian agencies, a far cry from the initial threats of unilateral military intervention that had accompanied the CPC designation. The coordination of this operation underscored the extent to which Mal. Ribadu’s engagements—that Nigeria was a willing partner facing a shared, non-sectarian threat—had taken hold.

Barely two weeks later, on January 13, 2026, U.S. forces delivered “critical military supplies” to Nigerian security agencies in Abuja, a tangible milestone in the burgeoning security partnership. Announced by AFRICOM, the delivery was explicitly framed as support for Nigeria’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts and was characterised as part of a shared security partnership. While the precise contents of the equipment were not disclosed, the symbolism could not be overstated: after months of diplomatic effort, Nigeria was receiving material support from one of the world’s most advanced defence establishments to bolster its own fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

The cooperation has not been limited to hardware alone. Reports indicate that U.S. intelligence collection over Nigerian territory has been stepped up, with surveillance flights and daily intelligence gathering flights complementing Nigeria’s own efforts, and leading to actionable intelligence that has disrupted plots and likely prevented attacks that previously might have succeeded. This level of intelligence sharing is widely regarded by Nigerian security sources as deeper and more dynamic than any prior period in recent memory.

In reframing Nigeria’s security predicament from one mischaracterised abroad as a narrow religious crisis to one understood as a multifaceted threat affecting all Nigerians, Mal. Nuhu Ribadu secured not just respect from counterparts in the United States, but results. From operational cooperation, to material support, and sustained intelligence sharing that have already begun to show positive effects on the ground.

In the unforgiving arena of international diplomacy and national security, outcomes matter more than words. What began as an external rebuke has, under Mallam Ribadu’s guidance, become a catalyst for renewed partnerships, enhanced capabilities, and a more coherent approach to shared threats.

* Eyimofe Amajuoritse is a journalist covering Nigeria’s foreign relations.

Op-Ed: From ambition to alignment: Why West Africa must become a global trade powerhouse

For decades, the promise of West Africa has been measured against its untapped potential. Our markets are vast, our population young, our resources abundant – yet the returns, particularly for our own citizens, have lagged behind the rhetoric.

At the inaugural West Africa Economic Summitheld in Abuja this June, leaders from across the region came together not to admire the idea of integration, but to insist on its implementation. We gathered not for ceremony, but for course-correction. And what emerged was clear: The costs of inertia now outweigh the frictions of reform.


As Chair of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, I have seen first hand both the ambition and the architecture of regional policy. Our frameworks for trade liberalization, energy cooperation and free movement are not hypothetical. They exist. But the gap between what is agreed on paper and what is delivered in practice has become too wide to ignore.

Historically, trade among West African communities has flourished, exemplifying a rich legacy of cooperation and exchange that can illuminate the potential for economic collaboration, even amid the complexities of today's global marketplace. Long before colonial borders divided us, West African trade routes stitched together forest, savannah and Sahel. Livestock moved southward; kola nuts moved northward. Markets such as Salaga, Katsina and Kano thrived not because of central planning, but because of mutual interest. That spirit endures in spite of bureaucracy, not because of it.

What has changed, however, is the global context. Today, the world is being re-ordered by supply chain shifts, digital infrastructure, and the geopolitics of energy and rare earths. In this reordering, West Africa cannot afford to be passive. We have scale. We have strategic resources. But we lack the coordination needed to convert those assets into influence.

In Abuja, I called for that coordination. Not as a talking point, but as a mandate. From transport corridors and power pools to customs digitization and data interoperability, the future of our region will depend on how well we can harmonize national ambition with regional strategy. That harmonization cannot be symbolic. It must be institutional.

Indeed, the success of any vision hinges on delivery. As part of our next steps, we are working to operationalize an interministerial review mechanism that will track implementation across trade, energy and infrastructure. The point is not to build new bureaucracy, but to reinforce accountability – quietly and consistently.

Our investors are watching. Integration is not simply a moral or ideological project; it is a signal. When we move goods more easily across borders, when our standards align, when policy does not shift with each administration – we inspire confidence. And confidence is what unlocks capital.

At the summit, we also engaged directly with exporters and factory owners. These are the people navigating border delays and regulatory disconnects in real time. We must continue to ground our policies in proximity to shorten the distance between data and delivery.

Ultimately, our goal is not to mimic other models, but to define our own: one rooted in scale, self-determination and strategic autonomy. Not isolation. Not overdependence. But the kind of economic clarity that allows West Africa to negotiate on its own terms, within the continent and beyond.

If we fail to deliver, our promises become liabilities. The work ahead will be complex. But we no longer have the luxury of deferral. As the saying goes, if you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far – and West Africa must go far – we go together.

Let this summit be remembered not as a moment of agreement, but as the beginning of action.

— Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar is Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs

Celebrating Sen. Fatimat Raji Rasaki at 70: A Cerebral Amazon


By Soji Ikotun

At 70, Senator Fatimat Raji Rasaki stands as a towering symbol of intellect, courage, and purposeful leadership. A true cerebral Amazon, she has combined sharp intellect with uncommon grace, breaking barriers and setting enduring standards for women in public life.
Born in Ekiti State on 13 January 1957, she went to the Doherty Memorial Grammar School in Ijero, before studying law at the University of Lagos. She joined other world’s executive students at acquiring knowledge under the mentorship and tutelage of the Centre for Public Leadership, Harvard Kennedy School, Cambridge, MA, USA and was conferred with a Fellow of the School having successfully passed the examination and participated actively at every session.

In an era where leadership is often tested by character rather than position, Sen. Raji Rasaki stands tall, defined not merely by the offices she has held, but by the lives she has touched and the values she has upheld. Her journey in public service is a testament to courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the common good.

She was first elected to the House of Representatives in the 6th Assembly (2007-2011), represented, Ekiti Federal Constituency 1 made up of Ado and Irepodun/Ifelodun local government areas. Her journey reflects disciplined thought, moral clarity, and unwavering commitment to service. With a mind honed by experience and a heart anchored in the public good, she has contributed meaningfully to governance, advocacy, and nation-building, earning respect across generations and divides.

Her contributions to public service reflect diligence, integrity, and a deep understanding of societal needs. Whether shaping policy, advocating for inclusive development, or championing reforms, she consistently placed humanity at the heart of decision-making. She became a strong voice for the voiceless, particularly women, children, and the underserved, ensuring that governance translated into tangible impact.

In 2015, she contested and won a seat to the 8th Senate, representing Ekiti Central on the platform of the All Progressive Congress, APC. Her contributions spanned introduction and passage of Bills namely, the Federal Competitions and Consumer Protection Bill, aimed at revolutionise the business environment in Nigeria. She sponsored scores of several bills at various stages of the legislative process.

Others are the Companies and Allied Matters Bill, otherwise known as the CAMA Bill, Nigerian Industrial Development and Zones Commission Bill, The Student Loans Bill. The Special Requirements Education Bill, Amendment to the Central Bank of Nigeria Act to enable transparency in the appointment of persons to the board of the apex bank.
Other bills include, Amendment to the Trustee Investments Act and the Tobacco Control and Related Matters Bill to enable the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control to effectively manage the Tobacco Control Act. Also, a bill for the amendment of the Weights and Measures Act will enable effective enforcement and management of the Act.

From her early days in public life, she distinguished herself as a woman of purpose, one who understood that leadership is service and that power finds its noblest expression in lifting other. Married to Gen Raji Alegbo Rasaki (Rtd), Sen. Rasaki was former first lady of Ogun, Ondo and Lagos states between 1986 and 1991. She garnered experiences and courage that stood her vibrantly out today. Even during the military era, with a keen sense of responsibility and an uncommon depth of empathy, she approached governance not as an entitlement but as a sacred trust bestowed by the people. She was Chairman of the Senate Committee on Culture and Tourism, and also Committee on Trade and Investment in the 8th Assembly.

Beyond the corridors of power, her philanthropic endeavours reveal the soul of her leadership. Quietly but consistently, she has invested time, resources, and influence in causes that restore dignity and create opportunity. From supporting education and healthcare initiatives to empowering widows, youths, and vulnerable communities, her philanthropy is driven by compassion rather than applause. This dedication spurred her desire to establish the Senator Fatimat Raji Rasaki Foundation, which doubles as parts of today’s celebration by unveiling to this giant stride as a mark to continue to serve humanity.

What truly sets her apart is the harmony between her public responsibilities and private convictions. She leads with grace, firmness, and moral clarity, proving that strength and kindness are not opposites but partners. In a society yearning for role models, she embodies the possibility of ethical leadership anchored in service.

Her story continues to inspire a generation of women and young leaders who see in her a reflection of what is possible, when purpose meets passion and service is guided by love for humanity. She stands tall, not because she seeks recognition, but because her legacy rises in the lives transformed by her vision and generosity.

In public service and philanthropy, she remains a beacon, reminding us that true greatness is measured not by how high one climbs, but by how many one lifts along the way.

As she marks this platinum milestone, and also the 50 years of marital bliss, we celebrate not only the years, but the impact: a life of ideas translated into action, of strength guided by wisdom, and of leadership that inspires confidence and hope.

Happy 70th birthday to a remarkable woman, an Amazon in courage, cerebral in thought, and timeless in legacy.

Boxing Day and the Diplomat at Work

“When the fly perches on your scrotum, it is not the sledgehammer you use to chase it away,” goes a popular African proverb. In some other contexts, the proverb refers to a mosquito. In any instance, whichever of these insects finds its way to one’s scrotum, wisdom must be applied.

Diplomacy is wisdom. It is knowing when to speak, what to say, and how to say it. When a crisis surfaces—especially one that takes an international dimension—it requires crude wisdom to navigate through it. The United States has found Nigeria’s Christian population a “precious community”, under threat and now requiring its salvation. The world’s policeman, Uncle Sam, had initially threatened to go “guns-ablazing” into Nigeria. According to President Donald Trump: “If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, ‘guns-a-blazing,’ to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.”

This was a vile, disrespectful, and unfortunate statement coming from the leader of what was once the world’s moral compass and a cornerstone of decent behaviour in the international order.

Trump clearly does not understand Nigeria’s context: the efforts of the government in dealing decisively with terrorists; the socio-cultural milieu of the Nigerian people—comprised of Christians and Muslims in near-equal measure; nor did the American leader understand the kind of criminality the country was dealing with. It was the deft engagements by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with the United States Government—including members of Congress, the Secretary of State, and the Secretary of War—that brought some level of sanity to the room. The US government now had a fair grasp of the Nigerian situation: yes, more needed to be done in addressing insecurity challenges, but Nigeria could not do it alone. The country needed support from partners—be it the United States or Russia.

On Christmas Day, as if on a Crusader campaign, the United States launched airstrikes on criminal targets in Nigeria’s North-West region, particularly Sokoto State. Only a handful of Nigerians knew. Ninety-nine point nine per cent of the country’s population only found out when the strikes had already been carried out, in the early hours of Boxing Day.

Matters that affect geopolitics are sensitive; there must be no room for assumptions. Communication is essential in clearing uncertainties and assumptions in such matters.

Channels TV’s Sunrise Daily morning show kicks off at 7 a.m. dot. At around 8 a.m. on Boxing Day, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, was a guest on the programme, clearly articulating Nigeria’s position on the US airstrikes on terrorist cells in Sokoto State. Within a couple of hours, the strikes had received international attention. CNN scrolled it as Breaking News. Al Jazeera did the same. And so did the Britons at the BBC.

Ambassador Tuggar spread himself like a blanket across multiple media platforms. After his Channels TV appearance, he was a guest on CNN, articulating Nigeria’s position and explaining what took place in Nigeria’s own words—not Donald Trump’s or the White House’s. A statement from his Ministry had, in fact, been released in the wee hours of the day. His appearances expanded on it, providing context and denying disinformation the oxygen it feeds on, which leads to fear and chaos.

On CNN, he countered the American narrative which, according to them, led to the strikes, stating that this was not a matter of religion. According to him, “This is not a problem of Muslims or Christians,” but a problem of terrorists. It was a security matter with exogenous factors—one that few fully grasp—caused by the breakdown of law and order in Libya (no thanks to America) and the growing proliferation of terrorist groups along Nigeria’s Sahel borders.

After CNN, Ambassador Tuggar was a guest on Al Jazeera News. He then had a brief engagement with the BBC, and by evening was a guest on Nigeria’s ARISE TV network.

Ambassador Tuggar was firm in his narrative: the airstrikes on the terrorists were not a unilateral decision by the United States—as was seen in the case of the capture of the Venezuelan leader. In this instance, the US government coordinated with the Nigerian government on the strikes. Nigeria provided both intelligence and the go-ahead. There was no breach of Nigeria’s sovereignty.

A single narrative he emphasised throughout his diplomatic media tour was that the airstrikes took place only after he had discussed this at length in a 19 minutes and later 5 minutes phone conversation with his United States counterpart, Secretary of State Marc Rubio, and subsequently obtained the approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—much earlier, before the strikes took place.

Another narrative Ambassador Tuggar left unambiguous was that Nigeria is not lacking the willpower to address insecurity challenges, and that while it does not possess all the resources required to deal completely with terrorists within its borders, the country is willing to welcome support from superpowers like America. The jointly coordinated airstrikes by the US and Nigeria were proof that the country is committed to working with partners across the world to address its security challenges.

Today’s world is a 24/7 information environment. Every second, a tweet is pushed out. A Facebook post is crafted. And a photo is making its way to Instagram. From CNN to Nigeria’s NTA, news is now an unending circle. It does not pause for the day. If you do not put out your narrative, someone else will.

Take a second to imagine if Ambassador Tuggar had not made a timely intervention after the US–Nigeria coordinated strikes took place: the world would have gone with the single, dangerous, and false narrative that it was a unilateral strike—one that crossed the lines of Nigeria’s sovereignty.

In moments like this, diplomats like Ambassador Tuggar must articulate their nation’s position and interests. They must shape the right perception through the right communication. The information environment we live in today does not care two straws whether it is Christmas or Boxing Day. Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs was spot on.

Mohammed Abiodun is a researcher and historian, he writes from Abuja.

Forest Guards and the Long Road to Securing Nigeria’s Ungoverned Spaces

For decades, Nigeria’s forests and vast stretches of ungoverned land have represented one of the most persistent blind spots in the country’s internal security architecture. What should ordinarily be ecological assets—sources of livelihoods, biodiversity and economic value—gradually became sanctuaries for bandits, terrorists, kidnappers, illegal miners and all manner of violent criminal networks. From the North-West to the North-Central belt, and increasingly across other regions, these forests evolved into launchpads for attacks and safe havens for fugitives escaping conventional security patrols.

This did not happen overnight. As population growth, climate pressures and economic dislocations strained rural communities, criminal groups exploited the state’s limited presence in forested and border areas. Conventional policing, designed primarily for urban and semi-urban environments, struggled to adapt. Security agencies were expected to police territories they barely knew—dense forests, unmapped paths, and difficult terrain where locals possessed far superior knowledge of the land. The result was a cat-and-mouse game in which criminals retained the advantage, melting into the bushes after every attack and returning when attention shifted elsewhere.

It is against this historical backdrop that the creation of the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NFHSS)—popularly known as the Forest Guards—must be understood. This Security Service is a deliberate attempt to address a several-decades-old structural weakness in Nigeria’s security framework: the inability to effectively secure forests and other vast, lightly governed spaces.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu authorised the establishment of the NFHSS after the National Assembly passed the enabling Bill into law. That decision reflects a growing consensus within Nigeria’s security community that winning the fight against insecurity requires taking the battle to where criminals actually operate—not merely responding after attacks have occurred.

The Forest Guards are designed to fill a critical gap. With insecurity increasingly rooted in forested areas, their primary responsibility is to take charge of forest security and deal decisively with criminal elements that use these environments as hideouts, transit routes or operational bases.

The successful birth of this initiative owes much to the steady coordination and strategic vision of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA). The National Security Adviser has played a pivotal, if understated, role in aligning policy intent with operational reality—ensuring that this new security service is not only legally grounded but professionally structured, properly vetted and integrated into the broader national security ecosystem.

The NFHSS draws its strength from a principle that Nigerian security policy must be community-anchored. Forest Guards are selected from among local hunters and vigilante groups—men and women who understand the terrain, the footpaths, the forests, and the subtle rhythms of the environment better than any outsider ever could.

To ensure professionalism and prevent abuse, this local recruitment is complemented by rigorous oversight. Names submitted by Local Governments undergo background checks by the Department of State Services (DSS). Only those who pass these screenings are admitted. In total, 70,000 Forest Guards have been recruited, in line with Federal Character principles, ensuring national spread and balance.

This hybrid model—local expertise backed by federal oversight—addresses one of the core failures of past security interventions: the absence of trust, intelligence flow and terrain familiarity at the grassroots level.

Concerns about training, arms control and accountability have been central to the design of the Forest Guards. Training is conducted at the state level, following regional screening exercises, and is carried out under the supervision of the DSS and other armed services. This ensures standardisation, discipline and adherence to rules of engagement.

Crucially, the Forest Guards are authorised to carry arms only with approval from the Office of the National Security Adviser, the statutory authority responsible for regulating the use of weapons by non-military entities. This centralised approval mechanism prevents proliferation, maintains command discipline, and anchors the service firmly within Nigeria’s national security framework.

Operationally, Forest Guards have powers of arrest and, where absolutely necessary, may use lethal force in the course of duty. However, their mandate is not to replace the police or the military. Rather, they are to investigate forest-related crimes and hand suspects over to the Nigeria Police Force, reinforcing inter-agency collaboration rather than competition.

The NFHSS operates under the Federal Ministry of Environment, reflecting the dual nature of its mandate: security and environmental protection. Forest crime is not limited to banditry and kidnapping; it also includes illegal mining, logging and destructive practices that degrade ecosystems and undermine local livelihoods.

Several state governments, like Lagos, Zamfara, and Sokoto States have also begun providing logistical and operational support, recognising that forest insecurity directly affects subnational stability.

At its core, the Forest Guards initiative is designed to restore state authority and security to Nigeria’s forests and other ungoverned spaces. They will provide the needed assistance to other security services to confront and dismantle the criminal ecosystems that have taken root in these areas. The Forest Guards are tasked with preventing and combating forest-based crimes such as kidnapping, banditry and illegal mining, while also addressing related threats including bush and forest fires that endanger lives, livelihoods and the environment.

Equally important is their role in harmonising and professionalising existing hunter and vigilante groups, bringing them under a coordinated and regulated framework that prioritises discipline, accountability and collaboration with formal security institutions. By operating close to the terrain and communities, the Forest Guards are expected to gather actionable intelligence and share it promptly with relevant security agencies, strengthening early warning systems and improving response capabilities.

If effectively implemented and sustained, the Forest Guards could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s internal security strategy. By reclaiming forests and bushes from criminal control, the Nigerian state is sending a clear signal: there will be no safe havens, no forgotten territories, no lawless pockets beyond the reach of government’s authority.

More importantly, this initiative rebalances the security equation. Criminals who once launched attacks from deep within forests will now find those same spaces actively monitored, patrolled and contested. The fight is being taken directly to their hiding places.

In the long run, safer forests mean safer communities, restored confidence in rural governance, and a stronger sense of state presence where it has long been absent. Let us not ascribe the Forest Guards the quality of a silver bullet—but however, they are a necessary and overdue addition to Nigeria’s security framework, one that reflects hard-earned lessons from decades of asymmetric threats.

If the momentum is sustained, this move will not only flush criminals out of their hideouts; it will fundamentally change how Nigeria secures its vast ungoverned spaces—and how the state reasserts control over every inch of its territory.

⁃ Dahiru Bashir Hassan is a security researcher and writes from the FCT

Zamfara Youth League Condemns Allegations Against Matawalle as ‘Indecent Politics’

The Zamfara Youth League has strongly condemned recent allegations linking the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, to banditry, describing the claims as reckless, vexatious, and a manifestation of indecent politics taken too far.

In a statement issued on behalf of the group by Ubaidullah Yahaya, the League said the accusations were dirty and offensive, arguing that they overstep the acceptable boundaries of political contestation. According to the group, the allegations are part of a sponsored campaign aimed at maligning the former Zamfara State governor.

The League alleged that the attacks are politically motivated and not unconnected to speculation about Matawalle’s ambition to contest the Zamfara governorship seat in 2027, currently occupied by Governor Dauda Lawal. It claimed that those sponsoring the campaign are driven by fear of Matawalle’s political influence and his capacity to challenge the incumbent at the polls.

“The quarters behind these obnoxious campaigns know that Dr. Matawalle possesses the political clout to defeat Dauda Lawal in an election,” the statement said, adding that the attacks stem from anxiety and jealousy over the minister’s prominence and record of delivery.

The League insisted that Matawalle has never supported, funded, promoted, or advanced the cause of banditry. Rather, it described him as a consistent opponent of criminal elements, noting that bandits detest him as much as he opposes them.

The group argued that Matawalle’s appointment as Minister of State for Defence by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was a reflection of the President’s knowledge of his track record in tackling insecurity. It recalled that during the kidnapping of students in Kebbi State, President Tinubu specifically relied on Matawalle to intervene, stressing that the minister did not return until all the abducted children were rescued unharmed.

“The President knows the facts of Matawalle’s successes as Governor of Zamfara State, much more than his detractors. In fact, when the crisis of the Kebbi students kidnap arose, President Tinubu did not need to look to any one else other than Dr Matawalle to go to Kebbi State, deal with the issue and return the students unharmed!

“Dr. Matawalle achieved that. He did not return to base, till the children, all were rescued.”

The League further accused Matawalle’s critics of attempting to tarnish his reputation through falsehoods, likening the campaign to the proverbial act of giving a dog a bad name in order to hang it. It also alleged that the sponsors of the attacks had gone as far as presenting a former aide of Matawalle—who, according to the group, was dismissed, disgraced, and imprisoned for criminal conduct and links to terrorists—as a key witness in their campaign.

Contrary to the allegations, the League said official records show that Matawalle made significant progress in addressing banditry during his tenure as governor, surpassing the efforts of his predecessors from whom he inherited the crisis. It noted that he worked closely with the Federal Government under former President Muhammadu Buhari and the then Chief of Army Staff, General T. Y. Buratai, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to tackle insecurity.

The statement also highlighted the establishment of a State Security Committee under Matawalle’s administration, chaired by former Inspector-General of Police Mohammed Dikko Abubakar, which cooperated effectively with security agencies to combat criminal elements. According to the League, Zamfara State recorded no bandit attacks for a full year during Matawalle’s tenure.

“Dr. Matawalle as Zamfara State Governor made the most mark in terms of dealing with banditry in the state—far above his predecessors who he inherited the crisis from. He cooperated with the Federal Government, led by former President Muhammadu Buhari, and worked closely with the then Chief of Army Staff, General Buratai to deal decisively with banditry—whether it was by kinetic or non-kinetic approach.

“He set up the Security Committee chaired by M. D Abubakar, a former Inspector General of Police, which dealt successfully with the criminal elements through cooperation with security agencies.

“The records are there. Indeed, for a full year under Dr Matawalle, the state did not experience a single case of a bandit attack.”

The Zamfara Youth League called on those demanding Matawalle’s removal from office based on what it described as fictional ties to banditry to desist immediately, warning that such actions amount to dirty politics taken too far.

“Zamfara indigenes and all those who believe in decent and responsible politics demand that this campaign of falsehood and character assassination must stop,” the statement concluded.

NSA Ribadu Unveils 7,000 Forest Guards, Set for Immediate Deployment

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has announced the graduation of over 7,000 newly recruited Forest Guards drawn from seven frontline states, following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in May 2025.

The initiative represents a coordinated Federal–State security intervention aimed at reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal exploitation.

The graduation ceremonies were held on 27 December 2025 across Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi States. The programme is designed to strengthen Nigeria’s internal security architecture by denying terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal groups sanctuary within forested and hard-to-reach terrains.

The training programme was deliberately intensive, structured, and demanding, designed to transform loyal and committed Nigerians into agile, disciplined, and capable field operatives. The curriculum integrated environmental conservation principles with advanced security competencies, ensuring a balanced, professional, and mission-ready force.

Trainees underwent extensive physical and mental conditioning, including endurance exercises, obstacle-crossing drills, and long-range patrol simulations to prepare them for sustained forest operations.

They were also trained in tactical fieldcraft, including movement techniques, enemy-contact drills, ambush response, rescue operations, and coordinated offensive actions—equipping them to deny criminal elements any form of sanctuary within Nigeria’s forest spaces.

Equally central to the programme was a strong emphasis on ethics, legality, and professionalism. The curriculum placed significant focus on human rights, International Humanitarian Law (IHL), gender rights, and the protection of civilians.

Arms handling and use-of-force protocols were strictly regulated in line with an Arms Management Manual jointly agreed upon by all participating agencies.

Speaking at the ceremonies, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, described the initiative as a decisive step toward restoring state authority and protecting vulnerable communities.

“These Forest Guards are not just uniformed personnel. They are first responders, community protectors, and a critical layer of Nigeria’s security architecture. They will hold ground, gather intelligence, and support security agencies in reclaiming territories previously overtaken by criminal elements.”

The NSA confirmed that deployment will commence immediately, with no gap between graduation and operational duty.

“There will be no delay between graduation and deployment. Salaries and allowances will commence immediately, and every certified guard will proceed directly to assigned duty posts,” he stated.

The training programme recorded a 98.2 percent completion rate. A total of 81 trainees were disqualified on disciplinary grounds, while two trainees passed away due to pre-existing medical conditions. All successful participants have been fully certified and cleared for operational service.

The graduating Forest Guards are indigenous to their respective local government areas, enabling them to leverage terrain familiarity and community trust in countering banditry, kidnapping, and the illegal exploitation of forest resources.

The Nigerian Forest Guard is an inter-agency national security initiative established under the leadership and strategic guidance of the National Security Adviser, in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Environment, and operationally coordinated by the Department of State Services (DSS) and the National Park Service.

The programme draws doctrine, operational alignment, and strategic input from the Defence Headquarters, Nigerian Army, Nigerian Navy, Nigeria Police Force, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)—ensuring unity of command, clarity of purpose, and operational effectiveness.

Governors and Deputy Governors from the seven participating states attended the ceremonies, including Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State and Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with other states represented by their Deputy Governors.

Reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment, the NSA concluded: “By protecting our forests, we are securing our territory. And by securing our territory, we are protecting our people. The Federal Government will not relent. This initiative will expand nationwide as part of our sustained effort to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.”

https://www.channelstv.com/2025/12/27/fg-graduates-over-7000-forest-guards-set-for-immediate-deployment/amp/

Governor Abiodun and the Ogun LG blackmailers



By Seyi Bakare

There is an unmistakable lunacy that runs through the piece, "Governor Dapo Abiodun and His Greek Gift", supposedly written by a Femi Orebe and published in an online platform, Apple's Bite: it is the reinvention of a long debunked falsehood applied to discredit a current good gesture. The writer says that the situation in Nigeria's LGs has not changed since the Supreme Court judgement that granted them financial autonomy, but then blames this on the Ogun State Governor. He had bile and roaring rage, but did not have the intellect, decency or education to sound remotely believable to a sane mind. Because it is a Bolekaja pile of garbage concocted by an errand boy of a drowning politician whose services can apparently be secured by a bottle of beer, the piece is published on many platforms under different titles and if you want to read it on Nairaland, one of the sites where the anti-Abiodun brigade regularly comforts itself with blatant falsehoods and libel that will never be published on real media platforms, the title is: "Local government autonomy, Dapo Abiodun and Tinubu."





The writer says, gratuitously, that Governor Dapo Abiodun "smiles at party meetings" while systematically frustrating the autonomy the Supreme Court has guaranteed and the President has staked his legacy upon, but he cites not a shred of evidence to back up his bilious claim, confident in the Abiodun Derangement Syndrome of his patron god who ran Ogun State like a common thug. Even if his memory has suffered a haemorrhage, surely he must remember that his co-traveller, Wale Adedayo, who in August 2023 alleged that the Dapo Abiodun government had hijacked Ogun LG funds, and that the LGs in the state had been receiving zero allocation from the Federation Account since 2021, relied on public angst against governors instead of hard evidence to make his case. As the Abiodun government published retractions indicating that the Governor had never touched a dime of LG funds, and was no signatory to their account, Adedayo had only his allegations as ammunition.





During an appearance on the state House of Assembly grounds, the body statutorily mandated with disbursing LG funds in Ogun State, namely the Joint Account and Allocation Committee (JAAC), declared that every fund approved by the committee during its monthly meetings had always passed through the various LG accounts. According to it, the process of fund administration always took place at a monthly meeting attended by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs and his Permanent Secretary, the 20 LG chairmen, Commissioner for Finance, State Accountant General, President and Secretary of NULGE, representatives of Traditional Councils in the State, Local Government Service Commission, Bureau of Local Government Pension and representatives of LG pensioners, amongst others. In the 26 months that he served as LG boss, Adedayo had attended JAAC meetings 15 times, and had said nothing about zero allocation in that period. And, what is more, instead of a criminal hijack of LG funds, the Ogun JAAC confirmed that the Abiodun government had actually augmented their earnings from the Federation Account during the COVID-19 crisis because those earnings could not even take care of first line charges! In 2020, the LGs, which had a N43.121bn budget for first line charges, got only N34.750 bn from the Federation Account, leaving a deficit of N6.619 bn. In 2021, they got N38.723 bn, while payment for first line charges was put at N47.845 bn. In 2022, they needed to pay N54.182 billion as line charges but the Federation Account only provided N47.845 bn, leaving a deficit of N17.4 bn by January 2023. Not wanting the people at the grass roots to suffer, Abiodun decided to help out!





Surely, as Ogun students in tertiary institutions at the time would remember, Abiodun gave each of them N50,000 to tide them over. He also gave primary and secondary students money, but he channeled it through their parents. He rolled out CNG buses, bikes and tricycles long before President Tinubu assumed office and announced the removal of subsidy, arguing they would leave the Ogun people with higher disposable income because they are cheaper to run/use. Now, two years later, a corrupt lickspittle of political pirates pretending to write poetry but unable to escape the language of demagoguery ("The vehicles gleamed under the Abeokuta sun, their metallic paint catching the light like promises wrapped in cellophane" is using Governor Abiodun's presentation of SUVs to LG chairmen on Christmas Day to resurrect a lie in order to discredit the people's Governor. What a depraved clown!!

Bakare sent this piece through seyibakre@gmail.com

Nigeria, U.S. Deepen Security Cooperation as Intelligence-Led Operations Hit Terrorist Targets

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its cooperation on ongoing counter-terrorism operations with the United States, even as this security cooperation with the United States has begun to yield results, including a precision air strike last night against terrorist targets in the North-West.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, under the leadership of Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, said Nigerian authorities remain fully engaged in coordinated security and intelligence collaboration aimed at degrading terrorist networks and addressing the persistent threat of violent extremism.

According to the Ministry, the cooperation with the United States is conducted within clearly defined bilateral frameworks and in line with established international practice. It involves intelligence sharing, strategic coordination, and other forms of support, all undertaken with full respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty, international law, and shared commitments to regional and global security.

The Ministry stressed that Nigeria retains full ownership and leadership of all counter-terrorism operations, with international partnerships serving to complement national efforts rather than supplant them.

Ambassador Tuggar’s Ministry underscored that the protection of civilian lives remains paramount, noting that all security actions are guided by Nigeria’s commitment to national unity and the rights and dignity of all citizens, regardless of religion or ethnicity. The government reiterated that terrorism, whether targeted at Christians, Muslims, or any other community, is an affront to Nigeria’s core values and a threat to international peace and security.

The statement further noted that the Federal Government continues to work through established diplomatic and security channels to disrupt terrorist financing and logistics, counter cross-border threats, and strengthen Nigeria’s own security institutions and intelligence capabilities.

Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Ministry said Nigeria is pursuing a balanced approach that combines robust security operations with sustained diplomatic engagement, ensuring that international cooperation aligns squarely with national priorities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs assured that it will continue to engage relevant partners and keep the public informed through official channels, as Nigeria intensifies efforts to restore lasting peace and security across the country.

Reckless Attack on Matawalle Smacks of Indecent Politics — The Zamfara Youth League

The recent allegations being crafted against Dr Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, as being a person with connections to banditry is dirty and indecent politics taken too far.

It is vexatious and offensive. And it oversteps the boundaries allowed of political games.

Of course these sponsored attacks, attempting to force a link between Dr. Bello Matawallle and banditry are not unconnected to his 2027 ambition to take over the seat of power from Dauda Lawal, as Governor of Zamfara State.

The quarters that have sponsored these obnoxious campaign against Dr. Matawalle know for a fact that he is the one person who possesses the political clout to oust Dauda in an election, come 2027. They are jittery and have chosen to sponsor these malicious stories against him.

For the records: Dr. Bello Matawalle has never in his life supported, funded, promoted or advanced the cause of bandits or banditry. On the flip side, he has proven to be the archenemy of that enterprise. They detest him, as much as he does them, too.

It is for this reason that President Tinubu did not just consider him as a Minister in his government, but as a Minister of State for Defence.

The President knows the facts of Matawalle’s successes as Governor of Zamfara State, much more than his detractors. In fact, when the crisis of the Kebbi students kidnap arose, President Tinubu did not need to look to any one else other than Dr Matawalle to go to Kebbi State, deal with the issue and return the students unharmed!

Dr. Matawalle achieved that. He did not return to base, till the children, all were rescued.

Those attacking him today only do so out of jealousy. They fear his prominence. They detest that he delivers and they hate that so much.

They have sought to give the Minister a bad name, like the proverbial dog, then hang him—for falsehoods and untruths.

They have also gone to the far-reaching extent of procuring Matawalle’s former aide who was sacked, disgraced and imprisoned for criminal conducts and links with terrorists, to serve as their star witnesses in this game of indecent politics.

Unbeknownst to these fraudulent elements, the records show a different thing:

Dr. Matawalle as Zamfara State Governor made the most mark in terms of dealing with banditry in the state—far above his predecessors who he inherited the crisis from. He cooperated with the Federal Government, led by former President Muhammadu Buhari, and worked closely with the then Chief of Army Staff, General Buratai to deal decisively with banditry—whether it was by kinetic or non-kinetic approach.

He set up the Security Committee chaired by M. D Abubakar, a former Inspector General of Police, which dealt successfully with the criminal elements through cooperation with security agencies.

The records are there. Indeed, for a full year under Dr Matawalle, the state did not experience a single case of a bandit attack.

Those who are calling for his sack, using the fiction of ties to banditry must stop those desperate calls now. It is dirty politics taken too far. They are using a story that is untrue to soil the name of a good man. Zamfara indigenes and those who care for decent and responsible politics demand that they stop it now.


Ubaidullah Yahaya on behalf of the Zamfara Youth League

“Hospital Renovation Is Not My Job but that of the Governor” Agaie/Lapai Lawmaker’s Hon. Abdullahi Mamudu Remark Triggers Public Fury Despite ₦10m Donation

By Salihu Etsu

Fresh controversy has trailed the Member representing Agaie/Lapai Federal Constituency, Hon. Abdullahi Mamudu, following his public assertion that renovating or building general hospitals is not part of his primary responsibility but that of the Governor of Niger State, a remark that has sparked outrage across the constituency.

The statement came even as the lawmaker announced a ₦10 million donation towards the renovation of Agaie General Hospital, a move many constituents have dismissed as contradictory, politically calculated, and reflective of what they describe as a pattern of evasion and underperformance since he assumed office.

Residents who spoke to our correspondent said the lawmaker’s comment has reinforced long-held concerns about his underwhelming legislative record. According to them, Hon. Mamudu has failed to sponsor any notable bill or attract meaningful federal intervention projects, despite spending years in the House of Representatives.

Several constituents compared his performance unfavourably with that of his counterpart and neighbor, the representative from Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdul who they say has sponsored over 27 bills and facilitated multiple hundreds of million-naira projects.

“Representation is not about shifting responsibility,” a youth leader, Musa from Agaie said. “It is about using your office to change lives.”

Billions in Budgets, Little on Ground

Critics argue that while lawmakers do not directly execute projects, they are constitutionally empowered to influence budgets, attract federal interventions, and oversee implementation. They question why, despite repeated constituency allocations reportedly running into billions of naira over several budget cycles, basic public infrastructure in Agaie and Lapai remains in disrepair.

“What he refuses to tell the public,” a community elder said, “is that it is also not the duty of a lawmaker to personally donate money, yet budgets are allocated to him every year. Where did those budgets go?”

Donation Seen as Political Survival Strategy

With reports of declining approval ratings and stiff resistance to his third-term ambition, many residents see the ₦10 million donation as a last-minute attempt to regain relevance rather than a reflection of sustained commitment to public service.

Observers note that the lawmaker’s attempt to distance himself from responsibility for hospital renovation while simultaneously publicising a donation has only deepened public scepticism.

While a statement credited to the Agaie Emirate Consultative Forum (AECF) praised Hon. Mamudu for the gesture and offered prayers for his political future, critics insist such endorsements do not mirror the prevailing mood among ordinary constituents, many of whom are demanding results, not rhetoric.

As political activities gradually intensify, constituents of Agaie/Lapai say they are no longer impressed by symbolic gestures or blame-shifting. For many, Hon. Mamudu’s remark that hospital renovation is “not his job but that of the Governor” has become a defining symbol of what they describe as a tenure marked by excuses rather than effective representation, some of them added that, Governor alone cannot fix the state but other political office holders with budgets and allocations need to play their own part in the development of Niger State.

Whether the donation will soften public anger remains doubtful, but one thing appears certain: the people are demanding accountability, competence, and leadership that understands the full weight of representation.

“Hospital Renovation Is Not My Job but that of the Governor” Agaie/Lapai Lawmaker’s Remark Triggers Public Fury Despite ₦10m Donation

By Our Correspondent

Fresh controversy has trailed the Member representing Agaie/Lapai Federal Constituency, Hon. Mamudu, following his public assertion that renovating or building general hospitals is not part of his primary responsibility but that of the Governor of Niger State, a remark that has sparked outrage across the constituency.

The statement came even as the lawmaker announced a ₦10 million donation towards the renovation of Agaie General Hospital, a move many constituents have dismissed as contradictory, politically calculated, and reflective of what they describe as a pattern of evasion and underperformance since he assumed office.

Residents who spoke to our correspondent said the lawmaker’s comment has reinforced long-held concerns about his underwhelming legislative record. According to them, Hon. Mamudu has failed to sponsor any notable bill or attract meaningful federal intervention projects, despite spending years in the House of Representatives.

Several constituents compared his performance unfavourably with that of his counterpart and neighbor, the representative from Bida/Gbako/Katcha Federal Constituency, Hon. Saidu Musa Abdul who they say has sponsored over 27 bills and facilitated multiple hundreds of million-naira projects.

“Representation is not about shifting responsibility,” a youth leader, Musa from Agaie said. “It is about using your office to change lives.”

Billions in Budgets, Little on Ground

Critics argue that while lawmakers do not directly execute projects, they are constitutionally empowered to influence budgets, attract federal interventions, and oversee implementation. They question why, despite repeated constituency allocations reportedly running into billions of naira over several budget cycles, basic public infrastructure in Agaie and Lapai remains in disrepair.

“What he refuses to tell the public,” a community elder said, “is that it is also not the duty of a lawmaker to personally donate money, yet budgets are allocated to him every year. Where did those budgets go?”

Donation Seen as Political Survival Strategy

With reports of declining approval ratings and stiff resistance to his third-term ambition, many residents see the ₦10 million donation as a last-minute attempt to regain relevance rather than a reflection of sustained commitment to public service.

Observers note that the lawmaker’s attempt to distance himself from responsibility for hospital renovation while simultaneously publicising a donation has only deepened public scepticism.

While a statement credited to the Agaie Emirate Consultative Forum (AECF) praised Hon. Mamudu for the gesture and offered prayers for his political future, critics insist such endorsements do not mirror the prevailing mood among ordinary constituents, many of whom are demanding results, not rhetoric.

As political activities gradually intensify, constituents of Agaie/Lapai say they are no longer impressed by symbolic gestures or blame-shifting. For many, Hon. Mamudu’s remark that hospital renovation is “not his job but that of the Governor” has become a defining symbol of what they describe as a tenure marked by excuses rather than effective representation, some of them added that, Governor alone cannot fix the state but other political office holders with budgets and allocations need to play their own part in the development of Niger State.

Whether the donation will soften public anger remains doubtful, but one thing appears certain: the people are demanding accountability, competence, and leadership that understands the full weight of representation.

NSA Leads Tinubu’s Delegation To Rivers, Commends Fubara as Federal Government Signals New Dawn for Ogoniland

Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Monday paid a high-level visit to Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, bearing a clear message from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu: the President is pleased with the governor’s responsible and measured leadership.

Ribadu made this known during a courtesy call at the Government House, Port Harcourt, where he led a presidential delegation comprising senior cabinet members and top officials of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL). He described Rivers State as one of the most peaceful in the federation, a development he attributed to constructive leadership and sustained dialogue.

“Mr President asked me to thank you. He is very happy with you,” Ribadu told Governor Fubara, noting the President’s satisfaction with the manner in which the state government has handled sensitive discussions around the planned resumption of oil exploration in Ogoniland.

According to the NSA, a new chapter is opening in Ogoni, with far-reaching changes expected to take root in the area after decades of tension and neglect. He expressed appreciation to the Ogoni people for their patience, resilience, and continued commitment to peace, stressing that their cooperation has created the enabling environment for meaningful progress.

The visit also underscored the Federal Government’s renewed focus on infrastructure development and environmental remediation in the Niger Delta. Ribadu announced that major projects are underway, including the completion of the over N200 billion Eleme axis of the East–West Road—featuring five flyovers—by April 2026.

Further plans include the dualisation of the Bonny–Bodo Road with two flyovers, as well as the rerouting of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway through Ogoniland, a move expected to significantly boost connectivity and economic activity in the region.

On environmental restoration, the delegation highlighted ongoing progress in the Ogoni cleanup, with several initiatives aligned with United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) recommendations. These include large-scale mangrove restoration, improved healthcare delivery, and targeted women empowerment programmes.

In a significant gesture aimed at deepening local participation, NNPCL announced its commitment to employ 30 Ogoni indigenes, with appointments scheduled to take effect when operations resume in January 2026.

Other members of the delegation included the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi; the Minister of Environment, Mallam Balarabe Lawal; and senior NNPCL officials—reinforcing the breadth of federal engagement as the government seeks to translate peace in Ogoniland into lasting development and shared prosperity.

Counter Terrorism Centred Denies Claims NSA Arms Ethnic Groups, Warns Against Misreporting Counter-Terrorism Operations

The National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), under the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has firmly denied allegations that the Federal Government or the National Security Adviser provided arms to any socio-cultural organisation, describing such claims as false, unfounded, and misleading.

In a statement issued by the Head of Strategic Communications, Abu I. Michael, the Centre said the clarification became necessary following reports by some online platforms concerning ongoing counter-terrorism operations, particularly in forested areas of Kwara State.

The NCTC stressed that, “for the avoidance of doubt,” neither the Federal Government nor its agencies are conducting kinetic operations in collaboration with socio-cultural groups, nor has the Office of the National Security Adviser armed any such organisation.

While reaffirming its commitment to transparency, the Centre cautioned that inaccurate and unverified media reports on security matters could compromise sensitive operations and endanger both security personnel and civilians.

The statement explained that the NCTC, in line with the Terrorism Prevention and Prohibition Act, 2022, continues to coordinate and support law enforcement, security, and intelligence agencies in addressing all forms of terrorism across the country. These efforts, it noted, are guided by Nigeria’s National Counter Terrorism Strategy (NACTEST).

According to the Centre, Nigeria’s counter-terrorism framework includes the deployment of hybrid operational models that combine regular security forces with trained auxiliary personnel such as hunters and vigilantes, particularly in difficult terrains. It clarified that these auxiliary elements are not socio-cultural groups, but individuals recruited, vetted, and deployed strictly by authorised security and intelligence agencies following due diligence.

The NCTC noted that the hybrid approach is not new, recalling its application in the North East, where trained civilian volunteers under the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) supported military operations against Boko Haram. It added that similar strategies are currently being employed in parts of the North West and North Central regions to degrade the capabilities of bandit, criminal, and terrorist groups, with recorded operational successes.

Addressing the specific situation in Kwara State, the Centre described recent media reports as inaccurate and misleading. It explained that the limited public information on the operation was deliberate, owing to the sensitive nature of counter-terrorism activities and the need to prevent operational compromise while ensuring the safety of both security personnel and auxiliary forces.

The NCTC urged the public to disregard reports that misrepresent the nature and conduct of counter-terrorism operations, and called on media organisations to exercise restraint, protect sensitive security information, and seek clarification through designated official spokespersons.

It reaffirmed its commitment to an open-door policy aimed at strengthening public understanding of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, while underscoring the importance of responsible reporting in support of national security objectives.

Tuggar Leads Talks with Burkina Faso Leader, Secures Release of Air Force Personnel

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, on Wednesday led a high-level delegation to Burkina Faso, where he met with the country’s leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, in Ouagadougou.

Ambassador Tuggar said the visit was undertaken at the instance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and conveyed a message of solidarity and goodwill from the Nigerian leader to the Burkinabe authorities. He noted that the engagement underscored Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and promoting regional integration.

Discussions between both sides focused on enhancing political, security, and economic cooperation, with particular attention to coordinated responses to regional security challenges and collective action within existing sub-regional frameworks.

The talks also led to the amicable resolution of issues surrounding Nigerian Air Force pilots and crew, a development both parties described as reinforcing mutual confidence and demonstrating the value of sustained dialogue in resolving sensitive matters.

Captain Traoré welcomed the Nigerian delegation and expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for the message of fraternity. He acknowledged the longstanding ties between Nigeria and Burkina Faso and stressed the need for closer collaboration to address shared security and development challenges in the Sahel and the wider West African region.

Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to good neighbourliness and continued engagement with Burkina Faso, adding that Nigeria remains supportive of initiatives aimed at strengthening regional cohesion, peace, and economic integration. He conveyed President Tinubu’s readiness to work closely with Burkina Faso to advance stability and development.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular consultations and pursue practical steps to deepen bilateral cooperation and regional integration in the sub-region.

Members of the delegation also visited the detained Nigerian Air Force crew, who were described as being in high spirits.

The delegation included the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed; the Chief of Policy and Plans of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Vice Marshal A. Y. Abdullahi; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to ECOWAS, Ambassador Olawale Emmanuel Awe; and the Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Wahab Akande.

Matawalle: Judging a book by its cover

By JACK OKUDE


It’s all too obvious that Bello Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, is one of the most misunderstood public officials in the country. He was governor of Zamfara state from 2019 to 2023. Matawalle came under intense media attacks recently and from the same sources that had felt uncomfortable with his political trajectory. And more significantly with his closeness to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
This can only point to one undeniable fact. Matawalle is a victim of politics, far from the picture being painted of him. His traducers, obviously high on political sophistry and drunk on a toxic broth of vengeful politics, fail to judge him using empirical, verifiable indices. This is the danger of judging a book by its cover, or reviewing a book without reading it. Either way, the auditors of Matawalle’s political profile and his role in the containment of banditry in the north west, have mis-read the book which Matawalle had become. It’s a book steeped in strategy, loaded with satire and scripted with cryptic lines in some places, making it difficult for persons of low intellect who cannot discern the satirical lines of the author, to understand.

This is what happens when you judge a book by its cover. Just because, you don’t like the cover of a book, you huff and puff that the book lacks substance when in reality, the same book contains nuggets that you need to cure you of your complicated diseases of hatred, virulent revulsion and atavistic aversion. Matawalle’s sin is his adoption of non-kinetic approach in the fight against banditry and terror. The two dark networks afflicting Nigeria at the moment. On account of his deployment of emotional intelligence, psychological operations (PsyOp), de-radicalization and rehabilitation, economic empowerment, among other non-kinetic strategies, he was portrayed as being sympathetic of banditry and the bandits. This, taken textually and in context, is a fallacy; a spin fabricated in the foundry of extreme politics.

But it bears restating that the non-kinetic approach adopted by Matawalle was not entirely his sole idea but that of the northern governors whose states came under the scourge of banditry and terror. During his era as governor, there were pictures and videos showing other governors holding dialogue with leaders of the bandits. Now, you wonder why these critics left the other governors who adopted the same approach and focused on Matawalle. The reason is: Politics!

Matawalle is neither a fan of banditry nor a sponsor of same. Politicians, especially those from his north west geopolitical zone, are the ones promoting this dimwitted narrative just to de-market a man whose rise in the nation’s political horizon, particularly as a champion of north west politics and a strong determinant in the zone’s power equation, is both sterling and stellar. But they have failed in their ignoble gambit oiled by pecuniary inducements. The recent spiral of events and confessions by some vested interests in north west politics have vindicated Matawalle.

The consistent sermons of the nation’s Intelligence community on the deployment of non-kinetic approach to secure the release of abducted Nigerians in different states further justifies Matawalle’s technique which he deployed as Zamfara governor and which he currently favours as the first phase of negotiation before the deployment of the kinetic approach of guns-a-blazing, bombs and mortars.

But take away politics from the niggling matter of banditry and terror. A stronger global persuasion recommends the use of non-kinetic approach especially in developing countries like Nigeria where poverty, lack of access to education and affordable healthcare make people fall into the hands of terror merchants who bait their recruits with money, food and other social amenities which the country should have provided for them.
Experts have continued to advocate for the use of non-kinetic methodologies in combatting communal conflicts, the type the country is battling with today. They say this approach should involve a huge 75 percent of the strategy while kinetic approach, the use of military might, should be about 25 percent and should be deployed only when non-kinetic approach has failed.

Matawalle adopted this model as governor and it helped to protect the lives of the people rather than the kinetic force which leaves casualties on the side of the bandits and the same people you want to protect. The war against terror and banditry demands such measure because the enemies have integrated themselves among the people whom they use as shield in moments of attack. It is a case of the carrot and the stick favoured by the military.

As governor, Matawalle dangled the carrot and was able to preserve the lives of the citizens. It must be emphasized that banditry in Zamfara predated his arrival at government house. He inherited it. By his carrot approach of active engagement of all stakeholders in the ecosystem, he pushed back the seething rage of the bandits. The Gusau-Anka-Gummi road which was a no-go area before he emerged as governor became safe again during his tenure. Other roads including the famous Wurno-Isa- Shinkafi- Gusau road, a fortress of bandits, reopened for commuters. Markets, including the popular cattle markets were opened as socio-economic activities made a rebound under his tenure. Matawalle has brought his signature non-kinetic approach to the Defence Ministry and some people are mis-reading the dashboard from their biased side of the prism.

The recent successes recorded in the release of some abducted Nigerians without shooting a gun which could have endangered the lives of the abductees mirrors the Matawalle template. By adopting the non-kinetic approach to release the abducted Nigerians, it will be unfair to tag the military apparatchik as sympathisers and promoters of terrorism and banditry. Such impression rubbishes the efforts of the NSA and the entire security network.

It is on record that under Matawalle’s watch as governor, over 1,000 captives were released by bandits without any ransom paid. This was achieved through dialogue and negotiations with relevant stakeholders and the bandits. On November 8, 2020, the 26 schoolgirls abducted by bandits from Faskari in Katsina State were released unconditionally by the bandits, following a non-kinetic approach facilitated by Matawalle. The freedom of many other abductees was effected under Matawalle during his tenure which on record, was the safest four years in the state. This freedom was won by the non-complicated act of negotiation and stakeholder engagements. This approach has been widely lauded by citizens and security experts as not only effective but also promotes the principle of preservation of citizens’ lives in moments of crisis.

Obviously, Matawalle is a victim of baleful politics. Those attacking him and profiling him as a banditry apologist are politicians and their obtuse hirelings who mischievously or ignorantly conflate non-kinetic approach to taming terror with sympathy for same. They lack the intellect to see beyond the lucre-tainted walls of their mental prisons.

President Tinubu, a leader who has demonstrated superior grand vision for a better Nigeria than any leader in this 4th Republic, needs the calming effect of Matawalle to secure the north west without spilling the blood of the innocents. Besides, the President needs the vast network and political equity of Matawalle to win the full confidence of the zone to advance his development and political agenda for a prosperous Nigeria.

On this note, President Tinubu should ignore the rancid rancor from the Matawalle haters. The minister is working with the security apparatchik in a seamless synergy that promotes unity, effectiveness of non-kinetic measures and preservation of the lives of citizens. He deserves commendation, not deprecation.

Okude, a policy analyst, writes from Abuja

MATAWALLE: THE NORTHERN ANCHOR OF LOYALTY IN TINUBU ADMINISTRATION.

By Adebayor Adetunji, PhD

In the broad and competitive terrain of Nigerian politics, loyalty is often spoken of, yet rarely sustained with consistency, courage and visible action. But within the administration of President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, one Northern appointee has demonstrated this quality not as a slogan, but as a lifestyle, as a political principle and as a national duty — Hon. (Dr.) Bello Muhammad Matawalle, Minister of State for Defence.

Since his appointment, Dr Bello Matawalle has stood out as one of the most loyal, outspoken and dependable pillars of support for the Tinubu administration in the North. He has never hesitated, not for a moment, to stand firmly behind the President. At every turn of controversy, in moments of public misunderstanding, and at times when political alliances waver, Matawalle has continued to speak boldly in defence of the government he serves. For him, loyalty is not an occasional gesture—it is a commitment evidenced through voice, alignment, and sacrifice.

Observers within and outside the ruling party recall numerous occasions where the former Zamfara State Governor took the front line in defending the government’s policies, actions and direction, even when others chose neutrality or silence. His interventions, always direct and clear, reflect not just loyalty to a leader, but faith in the future the President is building, a future anchored on economic reform, security revival, institutional strengthening and renewed national unity.
But Matawalle’s value to the administration does not stop at loyalty.

In performance, visibility and active delivery of duty, he stands among the most engaged ministers currently serving in the federal cabinet. His portfolio, centred on defence and security, one of the most sensitive sectors in the country, demands expertise, availability and unbroken presence. Matawalle has not only embraced this responsibility, he has carried it with remarkable energy.

From high-level security meetings within Nigeria to strategic engagements across foreign capitals, Matawalle has represented the nation with clarity and confidence.

His participation in defence summits, international cooperation talks, and regional security collaborations has positioned Nigeria as a voice of influence in global security discourse once again. At home, his involvement in military policy evaluation, counter-terrorism discussions and national defence restructuring reflects a minister who understands the urgency of Nigeria’s security needs, and shows up to work daily to address them.

Away from partisan battles, Matawalle has proven to be a bridge — between North and South, civilian leadership and military institutions, Nigeria and the wider world. His presence in government offers a mix of loyalty, performance and deep grounding in national interest, the type of partnership every President needs in turbulent times.

This is why calls, campaigns and whisperings aimed at undermining or isolating him must be resisted. Nigeria cannot afford to discourage its best-performing public servants, nor tighten the atmosphere for those who stand firmly for unity and national progress. The nation must learn to applaud where there is performance, support where there is loyalty, and encourage where there is commitment.

Hon. Bello Matawalle deserves commendation, not suspicion. Support—not sabotage. Encouragement, not exclusion from political strategy or power alignment due to narrow interests.

History does not forget those who stood when it mattered. Matawalle stands today for President Tinubu, for security, for loyalty, for national service. And in that place, he has earned a space not only in the present political equation, but in the future judgment of posterity.

Nigeria needs more leaders like him. And Nigeria must say so openly.

Adebayo Adetunji, PhD
A communication strategist and public commentator writes from Akure, Ondo State

NASENI at Two: How Khalil Halilu Is Rewriting Nigeria’s Industrialisation Story

For decades, the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) lived in the shadows of its own potential—known more for excellent research documents than for actual products Nigerians could buy, use, or feel in their daily lives. It was a familiar Nigerian story: brilliant ideas that had been trapped on the shelves of government institutions, celebrated in theory but absent in practice. The old NASENI reflected this contradiction. But the Nigeria of today can no longer afford that luxury.

Two years ago, when Khalil Suleiman Halilu accepted the responsibility of steering NASENI, he did so with an understanding that the agency’s mandate could no longer be limited to research for research’s sake. The country needed something more urgent, more pragmatic: an institution that converts knowledge into prototypes and prototypes into commercial value. This is how nations industrialise—not through policy papers alone, but through factories, technology hubs, engineering capability, and the scaling of indigenous innovation.

Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, NASENI was called to become exactly that: an engine of creation, collaboration, and commercialization. And the EVC made that pivot the cornerstone of the agency’s reform journey.

Khalil Halilu was clear from the start: NASENI had to transform from “a research agency” into “a force of commercialization.” In other words, the agency needed to make things—real things—at scale, for Nigeria and for export. To achieve this, he anchored reforms on three bold policy frameworks: the Creation–Collaboration–Commercialization Blueprint, the Green Economy Roadmap, and the Innovation-to-Commercialisation Framework. These were his working templates, aimed at turning Nigeria’s aspirations into operational plans.

Today, the evidence speaks for itself. Forty-four indigenous products have moved from concept to the marketplace. Fifty-five projects have been executed across the country. Eighteen dormant research and development centres are alive again, with six entirely new ones established. More than fifty partnerships—spanning defence, energy, ICT, agriculture, and biotechnology—now anchor the work of the agency.

In just two years, NASENI has shifted Nigeria’s story from research that lingers on the shelves to innovation that is delivered, deployed, and felt across the nation.

Across the country, NASENI’s impact is no longer abstract. It is visible, tangible, and measurable.

The 40-hectare Solar Industrial Park in Nasarawa is positioning Nigeria as a regional powerhouse for renewable energy systems. The CNG Reverse Engineering Centre in Abuja is training hundreds of engineers to support the transition away from petrol to alternative fuels. In Bauchi and Jigawa, solar-powered irrigation technologies are helping farmers bridge the climate challenge and improve yields.

The National Asset Restoration Programme is reviving heavy machinery—over 1,000 tractors in Borno and Niger alone—restoring productivity across agricultural belts that have long suffered from equipment shortages.

And in the skies, NASENI is laying the groundwork for Nigeria’s aviation technology future. Through the NASCAV programme, the nation is building capacity in drones, aircraft recovery, and eventually helicopter technology—opening industries that Nigeria has historically depended on foreign expertise to access.

These wins are the foundations of a nation determined to industrialise on its own terms.

One of NASENI’s most striking achievements under Halilu is the localisation of innovation. Nigerians today can proudly own laptops, tablets, televisions, electric motorcycles, cookstoves, irrigation pumps, and other tools made by Nigerian engineers in Nigeria. The agency’s commercialisation drive is proving a point long overdue: that Made in Nigeria can finally mean Made with quality.

Beyond tech and tools, NASENI has embedded itself in human capital development.

Initiatives like She-Fly and DELT-Her are giving women access to drone technology and engineering careers. Youth-focused programmes like Innovate Naija and the Delta-2 partnership with the Czech Republic are nurturing new creators, inventors, and problem-solvers. And through technology roadshows across all 36 states, NASENI has taken its message directly to communities, showing young Nigerians that innovation is not a distant idea—it is theirs.

Industrialisation is never achieved in isolation. Recognising this, NASENI has forged partnerships with global players—from Haier to Chery, from Caverton to DICON—across energy, mobility, ICT, defence, and agriculture. These partnerships will serve as technical bridges linking Nigerian innovation to global supply chains and markets.

The benefits of all these are unmistakable. Thirty thousand direct jobs have already been created, with more than two million indirect jobs in sight. New campuses, laboratories, and technology parks are taking shape across the country. NASENI now has a presence in every state of the federation.

This is the foundation of a new Nigerian economy—one that builds, one that exports, and one that competes with confidence on the global stage.

As NASENI marks two years under Khalil Halilu’s leadership, the message from the agency is clear and unmistakable: the era of endless research reports with no real-world impact is over. The agency has stepped into its rightful role—not merely studying industrialisation, but driving it. And it is doing so with the full backing of a President who understands that no nation develops without strong indigenous engineering capabilities.

NASENI’s trajectory is resetting Nigeria’s industrial narrative. For the first time in a long time, the country is not just talking about innovation; it is building it, commercialising it, and exporting it. This is the path that nations like China, India, and Brazil followed. Nigeria is now on that path—decisively.

Two years in, NASENI has shown what is possible when vision meets execution. The work ahead is vast but promising. As Halilu puts it, innovation is no longer distant; it is local, present, and Nigerian.

What NASENI is the architecture of a future in which Nigerian-made technologies set global standards. This future will be measured not by import bills but by factories, labs and campuses that create jobs and sustain livelihoods; where local industries, not foreign imports, drive employment; and where the ingenuity of the Nigerian mind becomes one of our nation’s chief exports. That future is no longer an idea on paper—it is taking shape now, and NASENI is leading the way.

- Bature Danlami, a technology enthusiast writes from Kano State.

Arewa Consultative Youth Movement: Hand of Esau and Voice of Jacob on Zacch Adedeji

By Arabinrin Aderonke

Ordinarily, the campaign by Arewa Consultative Youth Movement on an ambiguous, spurious and veiled scraggy allegation for which they are asking Federal Inland Revenue Service Chairman, Zacch Adedeji to step aside to be investigated over his unstated lifestyle should be ignored. It can at best be a level of economic sabotage on Nigeria given the sterling performance of the head of the Revenue Service of the country.

Had they outlined any offence Mr. Adedeji committed to warrant or justify their call, one would have been assuaged, but no. The movement took an action akin to one hiding behind a finger which has made it obvious that theirs is a sponsored campaign of calumny against a resourceful cerebrally adroit man who is navigating Nigeria out of financial doldrums.

How come that of all the problems of Nigeria, it is the most vibrant and working sector that they have chosen to attack, a sector that has awakened Nigeria's senses to how we can stop borrowing to fund our country, taking the country back to progressive tax system that protects the financially weak that the Movement has singled out for attack?

This is the man who has instituted reforms in the tax system, plugged leakages and has awakened the country to how to generate funds to seamlessly run the economy. Truth is that an attack on Adedeji is an attack on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because the economic programme of this administration is receiving verve from the Revenue Service.

He has been meeting and surpassing targets set for him as the upper limit benchmark while at the same time enhancing the welfare of staff in a way that has boosted staff morale. He started the reformation that has changed the Inland revenue service and has crafted the new tax laws for the country which does not call for the vilification.

The right question to ask is who is behind the Arewa Youth Movement and the funding of this campaign of calumny? Our security agencies should as a matter of utmost urgency investigate those behind it as they qualify as enemies of state.

Adedeji has been so good at his game that Nigeria is generating so much that the pressure on our external reserve has ebbed leading to the increase of an all time high $45 billion thereby building global confidence in doing business with Nigeria. The ripple effects of his performance is touching positively on the economy that it is foolhardy for any discerning Nigerian not to notice.

Patriotic Nigerians are in the best position to know who is working in government and those who are not since many of them monitor in real time, all agencies and ministries as well as the government and know better that the Movement goofed and should retrace their steps unless they are shamelessly queueing behind those eternally committed to stagnating the country.

Summing up what Adedeji has done in two years, he has been superlative in performance and needs no distraction so he can concentrate and finish his good works. Those desiring to take over the service from him should wait for him to run his term and spare us the unnecessary nibbling by sponsoring organisations to issue empty statements.


Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi is the Technical Assistant on Broadcast Media to the Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service.

U.S. Lawmaker Hails Progress in Nigeria–U.S. Security Cooperation Following Talks with Ribadu

A visiting U.S. congressional delegation has signaled a major breakthrough in Nigeria–U.S. security relations, following what Rep. Riley Moore described as a “productive and positive” meeting with Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, marking one of the most significant diplomatic shifts since the United States designated Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern.”

Moore, who was part of a bipartisan fact-finding delegation dispatched to Nigeria after weeks of public debate over allegations of religious persecution, issued a detailed public statement on Friday praising the engagements led by Mal. Ribadu and outlining the contours of a new cooperative security pathway between the two countries.

In his statement, Moore said the Nigerian government and the U.S. delegation had discussed several concrete actions that, if fully executed, could substantially improve security across Nigeria.

“There were concrete steps and actions discussed at length, that if fully executed, I believe will enhance security across the country for all Nigerians,” Moore wrote.
“These steps can disrupt and destroy terrorist organizations in the northeast and stop the killing of Christians — a specific concern for President Biden and myself—particularly in the Middle Belt of the country.”

Moore also commended the Nigerian government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the recent rescue of more than 100 abducted Catholic schoolchildren—an operation that Nigerian officials say was coordinated through joint security efforts.

“I want to thank the Nigerian government and President Tinubu for rescuing the 100 innocent and precious Catholic school children,” Moore said.
“This is a positive demonstration of the government’s increasing response to the security situation and shows commitment to the emergency declaration laid out by President Tinubu.”

The commendation of the President’s security emergency declaration is one of the strongest endorsements yet of Nigeria’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts from the U.S. government.

One of the most consequential announcement from Moore’s statement is the confirmation that a U.S.–Nigeria joint task force has now been established, an outcome directly linked to Mal. Ribadu’s diplomatic shuttle to Washington last month.

“The now established joint task force between Nigeria and the U.S. is a great example,” he said, calling the initiative a sign that “a cooperative security framework is within sight.”

Mal. Ribadu had earlier met with senior U.S. national security leaders, including U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, members of Congress, the White House Faith Office, the State Department, the National Security Council, and the Department of War.

The NSA presented detailed briefings rejecting claims of genocide and outlining the Tinubu administration’s security reforms.

Moore emphasized that the Nigerian government showed openness and readiness for deeper cooperation.

“It is clear that there is an openness and willingness on the part of the Nigerian government to work with the United States to tackle these critical issues. Now, that openness has to translate to concrete action.”

Moore’s concluding message marked a notable shift from earlier skepticism within sections of the U.S. Congress.

“There is much work still to be done, but things are moving in the right direction,” he said.

“I look forward to the next steps with the Nigerian government and the continued open dialogue. Peace be with you all. God bless the great people of Nigeria.”

Diplomatic Analysts say the statement reflects the effectiveness of Ribadu’s month-long diplomatic engagement, which helped de-escalate tensions after Nigeria’s controversial U.S. designation. By opening direct lines of communication, offering intelligence briefings, and facilitating access to security operations on the ground, Mal. Ribadu enabled the Congressional delegation to reassess earlier claims.

With the establishment of a joint task force and the apparent reset in diplomatic tone, both sides now appear positioned to transition from mutual suspicion to structured cooperation.

Ayo Wisdom: The Minister We Always Knew Was Coming

By Alwan Hassan


About 11 years ago, I met a young man named Ayo Wisdom. It was sometime in 2013 or 2014, when I was serving as the National Field Coordinator of the All Progressives Youth Forum, APYF. The Forum was the one that took shape of the party’s youth agenda even before the official formation of the All Progressives Congress, APC. My role took me across Nigeria: from Lagos to Kebbi, from Sokoto to Cross River, and across every major city in search of the rarest resources in politics—young people who actually cared, deeply, sincerely, and relentlessly for our country.

And then I got to Ondo. Ayo Wisdom was not yet a household name. But even then, he was already Ayo Wisdom. He already had the combination that few youth leaders ever master: diligence without noise, respect without fear, and resourcefulness that bordered on clairvoyance.

He had the kind of mind that anticipated a problem before the rest of the room even realised something was off. If we were behind on logistics, Ayo was already thinking of a solution. If a local group was feeling unheard, Ayo had already spoken to them. He did not just wait to be told what the national plan was, he looked for it, studied it, understood it, and ensured that Ondo State was always in sync. He cared. That is what stood out most. He cared.

Not in the performative way that we have come to associate with Nigerian politicians. Ayo cared about young people in the trenches, the young party volunteers who gave their Saturdays to register voters, the girls in Akure dreaming of tech jobs, the boys in Okitipupa trying to make ends meet between school and okada shifts. When, in 2023, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed him as Minister of State for Youth Development, many people were surprised. I was not.

By then, Ayo had already spent four years as the APC State Youth Leader for Ondo, a position he assumed in 2019 and held with characteristic humility and effectiveness. Those years cemented his reputation as a bridge between the party and its young foot soldiers, the one leader who never asked of others what he would not do himself. In fact, I was the first person to call him and tell him that he had been nominated for a ministerial post in 2023—a moment that reflected not just our long journey together, but the deep trust that has always defined our relationship.

I could not have been surprised. Neither were the hundreds of us who had walked the APYF journey with him. We knew. We knew that the Renewed Hope Agenda was more than just a slogan. We knew that President Tinubu, a man who has spent decades identifying and nurturing talent, had spotted in Ayo what we all saw years ago, and perhaps even more than we did.

And now, just a year later, Ayo Wisdom is no longer Minister of State. He is the Minister for Youth Development, in full. Not by lobbying. Not by fanfare. But by performance. Let us talk about that performance.

When Ayo took office, the Youth Ministry was, to put it mildly, uninspiring. It had long been the forgotten sibling of Sports, a department that issued statements on Children’s Day in May and International Youth Day in August, and offered little else. Under his watch, that began to change.

By the end of the second quarter of 2025, official performance reports showed that the Ministry had trained 15,509 young Nigerians in digital skills, exceeding its target of 10,000. The same reports recorded 97,212 young people mentored in career development against a target of 80,000, and 5,023 trained in crime reduction and peacebuilding. More than 250,000 young Nigerians had also enrolled on the Nigerian Youth Academy platform. These are not abstract numbers. They are young people who now have at least a foothold in the skills and networks that the modern economy demands.

Then there is the Nigerian Youth Academy, NiYA, which President Tinubu formally launched at the Presidential Villa in March 2025. NiYA is designed as a digital and physical learning ecosystem that brings together online courses, live classes, mentorship, entrepreneurship support, and civic education. The federal government has set an ambitious target through NiYA, to empower over seven million young Nigerians with digital and professional skills in the coming years, working with partners in Nigeria, Europe, and the Middle East. It is a bold promise, but it is now a matter of public record, with structures and partnerships already in place.

Beyond digital access, the work has also moved into physical infrastructure. Public reports and media coverage confirm that the Ministry has overseen the establishment of 20 vocational training centres across the country, providing market relevant skills to over 10,000 young Nigerians in areas such as tailoring, carpentry, ICT, and renewable energy. These centres are places where young people can leave with skills that translate into income, whether as employees or as small business owners.

On the economic side, the Youth Entrepreneurship Fund has been launched as a vehicle to provide capital to young entrepreneurs. According to published accounts, over 5,000 young business owners have already accessed support through this fund, while thousands more have been matched with senior professionals through a National Youth Mentorship Initiative. Put simply, there is now a pipeline, from idea, to training, to mentorship, to capital, that did not exist at this scale a few years ago.

His approach has also leaned heavily on partnerships. Through collaborations with the private sector and subnational governments, the Ministry has been linked to the creation of over 10,000 job opportunities for young people in different sectors. In one notable initiative with the Niger State Government and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority, NALDA, the plan is to engage 100,000 youths in agriculture, not just as labourers, but as participants in a value chain that can build real wealth over time.

Perhaps his most symbolic intervention, however, has been in how young people relate to the state itself. The Nigerian Youth Help Desk, a formal channel for young Nigerians to lodge complaints and seek support, has been activated and expanded. By late 2025, government briefings indicated that the Help Desk had processed around 5,700 cases, with several thousand resolved, and that a WhatsApp based chatbot had been launched to make access even easier. In a country where ministries often feel distant, this is a small but significant step. It says, we hear you, we see you, we will act.

Linked to this is the Young and Secure effort, a broader push to rebuild trust between young Nigerians and security agencies. Official communications describe it as a mix of training, dialogue, and reforms aimed at ensuring that young people are protected, not profiled. It is an acknowledgment that the #EndSARS scars are real, and that any serious youth policy must deal with them honestly.

Then there is the physical symbol of a new era, the Youth House in Abuja. In September 2024, President Tinubu approved the establishment of a Youth House in the Federal Capital Territory as a national hub where young people from different backgrounds can meet, work, and organise. Alongside that, the administration announced a plan for Youth Centres in every state capital, and Youth Green Houses in the secretariats of all 774 local government areas. These are not all built yet, but the policy direction is clear, youth spaces are no longer an afterthought, they are being written into the national architecture.

People ask me why I am so proud of this young man. I tell them it is not just because Ayo is doing well. It is because his success is not accidental. It is the result of a value system built over time, service, competence, empathy.

It is the story of a man who spent a decade walking side by side with Nigerian youths, and now runs ahead of them to clear the path. It is the story of how a President who believes in talent spotted a man who had long been preparing. It is, more than anything, a reminder that the right people, in the right seats, can move mountains.

In the end, that is what renewed hope means, not blind optimism, but justified faith. And in Ayo Wisdom Olawande, Nigerian youths have exactly that.

Justified. And proud.

– Alwan Hassan, a founding member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) writes from Abuja

On Security, the Senate Moved Swiftly. On Power, It Must Do the Same

On the 3rd of December 2025, the Nigerian Senate confirmed General C.G. Musa as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Minister of Defence. It happened with unusual urgency. He was nominated on Monday, and by Wednesday every process required for his confirmation had been completed. This may well be the fastest screening of any presidential nominee in our recent history. We did not hear the usual refrains about reports still being prepared or committees awaiting documentation. It was treated as a matter of national urgency—a matter of alacrity.

A fundamental point made by General Musa during his confirmation screening was the need for the government, as a whole, to address the root causes of insecurity if we truly intend to change our national fortunes. The lack of jobs, the struggles faced by businesses, and a weakening economy come to mind. Nigerians will agree that one of the forces dragging our economy backwards is the lack of stable power—electricity.

Without addressing electricity supply, Nigerians will remain in poverty, and businesses will be unable to grow, forced instead into stagnation. This is why, if we are serious about confronting the challenges of our economy, and ultimately insecurity, we must confront the crisis in the power sector.

And that effort must begin from the National Assembly.

The National Assembly and its leadership must, as a matter of urgency, address our electricity challenge by confirming Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the Chairman/CEO as the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). This is the starting point for the much-needed reforms that the power sector desperately requires.

Nigerians expect the Senate to apply the same urgency it demonstrated on security matters to the issue of electricity. The power crisis underpins every aspect of our economy and must now be treated with the seriousness it demands.

The delay in confirming Engr. Ramat as Chairman of NERC has gone on for too long. It is counterproductive to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for the power sector. It is a recipe for failure in that sector.

Let us put aside political differences and do what is right for Nigeria.

— Olufemi Oreoluwa

MINISTER MATAWALLE’S GAME-CHANGING ACHIEVEMENTS IN DEFENCE

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has led a series of transformative reforms and policy initiatives that have significantly strengthened Nigeria’s defence capabilities. Rather than listing all the achievements, I’ll focus on key strategic initiatives that have made a lasting impact on the nation’s security posture.

In early 2025, Nigeria's military took a decisive step forward in modernizing its counter-terrorism efforts. At the IDEF defence exhibition in Istanbul, Turkey, the Honourable Minister Matawalle represented Nigeria and engaged directly with global security and defence leaders. His efforts helped to forge military and security collaborations, marking a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s strategy to enhance its ground forces against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram.

In line with these efforts, the Honourable Minister has been unwavering in his commitment to local manufacturing, reinforcing Nigeria’s drive towards self-reliance in defence. This strategy is already showing significant results, with substantial progress in the country's military production sector. Notable milestones include the production of 20 locally-manufactured light armored vehicles (LAVs) by EPAIL Nigeria in May 2024, boosting Nigeria’s reconnaissance and counter-terrorism capabilities. In December 2024, five Hulk Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, produced by Proforce Nigeria, were added to the fleet, complementing the existing Ara II MRAPs. These additions are crucial for protecting Nigerian troops against the ever-evolving threats posed by insurgents.

Furthermore, the production of specialized military motorcycles, known as "mountain climber bikes," has further bolstered Nigeria's operational capabilities. These locally-made motorcycles are designed for navigating challenging, rugged terrains, giving troops a significant advantage when executing operations in remote and difficult-to-reach areas.

By investing in domestic production, Nigeria is not only enhancing its military readiness but also positioning itself to confront insurgent threats with greater efficiency and effectiveness. This framework enables the military to sustain continuous operations, even in some of the most volatile regions of the country.

A critical moment in this effort came in September 2024, when the Honourable Minister conducted an operational visit to Sokoto State. During this visit, he reiterated the government's commitment to intensifying operations against terrorists and criminals. Acting on his directive, Nigerian forces swiftly neutralized several high-profile bandit leaders who had been terrorizing the North-West region, sending a strong message that the government will not relent in its fight against terrorism.

Currently, the Honourable Minister, Bello Matawalle is in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt attending EDEX 2025, an exhibition which brings together more than 450 global defence companies, 25 national pavilions, and official delegations from over 100 countries.

EDEX is a biennial international defence exhibition showcasing advances in land, sea, and air military technologies. It is considered one of the leading defence platforms in Africa and the Middle East, drawing senior military leaders, policymakers, and major global and local defence companies.

Ahmad Dan-Wudil is a Personal Assistant on Media to the Honourable Minister, writing from Abuja, Nigeria.
02 December 2025.

EDEX 2025: In Cairo, Matawalle Set to Strengthen Nigeria’s Defence Collaboration

The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, will participate in the Egypt Defence Exhibition (EDEX 2025), taking place from 1–4 December 2025 in Cairo, Arab Republic of Egypt, as part of ongoing efforts to deepen Nigeria’s defence partnerships and enhance military capability development.

EDEX is the leading defence and security exhibition covering Africa and the Middle East, providing participating countries a strategic platform to engage global manufacturers, assess emerging technologies, and explore advanced systems across land, sea, and air. The event serves as an important avenue for strengthening defence collaboration and identifying opportunities for capability upgrades.

During the visit, Dr. Matawalle will also hold a bilateral meeting with the Commander of the Egyptian Armed Forces/Minister of Defence and Military Production to discuss shared security priorities and avenues for expanded cooperation between Nigeria and Egypt.

Nuhu Ribadu and the New Phase of Nigeria–U.S. Security Engagement

There are clearly diplomatic tensions between Nigeria and the United States. The strength of our institutions, as well as the quality and caliber of our diplomats matter if we aim for the best results. Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser to the President has shown to have the strength and wit for this moment—calm when necessary, blunt when required, and always anchored by an unwavering belief in truth.

Over the past weeks, he has quietly but firmly rebalanced Nigeria’s security engagement with the United States, bringing both countries to a point of sober, respectful, and constructive cooperation after a period marked by misunderstanding and unhelpful rhetoric.

This reset was the product of deliberate engagement, clear articulation of Nigeria’s security realities, and Ribadu’s characteristic refusal to bend the truth for diplomatic convenience. He led a senior delegation to Washington at a time when the U.S. had taken sensitive decisions regarding Nigeria’s religious-freedom designation—decisions that were hasty and insufficiently informed by on-the-ground realities.

Rather than meet the US escalation with escalation, Ribadu chose a different path: clarity, candour, and facts.

In multiple engagements—with Congressman Riley M. Moore, the White House Faith Office, the U.S. State Department, the National Security Council, Pentagon leadership, and congressional committees—Ribadu walked the Americans through the realities of Nigeria’s multidimensional security landscape. He was blunt where necessary, particularly on the narrative that seeks to present Nigeria as a country where Christians are systematically targeted by the state. He clarified that Nigeria’s security crisis is not a religious war but a complex mix of terrorism, banditry, arms trafficking, misinformation, and localised conflicts affecting citizens of all faiths.

His delegation included some of the most senior figures in Nigeria’s security architecture, including the Inspector General of Police, the Attorney General of the Federation, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Defence Intelligence, and senior advisers. This sent a clear message to the United States: that Nigeria was not there to plead, but to correct, clarify, and collaborate.

One of the most consequential meetings happened behind closed doors at the Pentagon, where Ribadu met U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Dan Caine. Mal. Ribadu approached the engagement the same way he has approached every major national challenge for the past two decades: with firmness, facts, and a refusal to be intimidated.

He made it clear that Nigeria welcomed partnership, not paternalism; cooperation, not unilateral conclusions. He emphasised that Nigeria has consistently worked to protect vulnerable communities, including Christians in the Middle Belt and Northeast, and has never wavered in its duty to uphold freedom of religion. What was needed, he stressed, was deeper collaboration by the two countries, and not labels driven by faulty intelligence.

These engagements have defused tensions between Nigeria and the United States and have resented the security relations of both countries.

American officials have affirmed their readiness to deepen intelligence cooperation, accelerate equipment support, expand joint training, and strengthen early-warning systems for vulnerable communities. The U.S. government also agreed to a non-binding cooperation framework immediately and to establish a Joint Working Group to ensure continuity and coherence.

By the time the Nigerian team concluded its Washington rounds, it had achieved what many observers quietly acknowledged: Nigeria had restored respect to its diplomatic footing, established clarity on its security realities, corrected damaging narratives, and re-anchored its relationship with the United States on truth and mutual respect.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu followed swiftly by appointing Mal. Ribadu to chair the Nigerian side of the new U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group. This was a natural choice. Mal. Ribadu had shown credibility with international partners and brought to bear his history as one of Nigeria’s most fearless public servants. Those who have worked with him know that he is governed by a simple creed: the truth is the truth, no matter who is sitting across the table.

And it is that authenticity, coupled with years of experience confronting terrorism, corruption, and institutional decay, that allowed him to steer Nigeria through one of its most delicate diplomatic episodes in recent years.

For a country that continues to confront insurgency, violent extremism, and the daily task of safeguarding its diverse communities, the work ahead is enormous. But Nigeria now stands on more stable ground, with a partner in the United States that is willing to listen and engage.

The significance of this moment is in the quiet but decisive assertion that Nigeria will define its own realities, tell its own story, and engage the world from a place of dignity, truth, and competence. Mal. Ribadu has helped set that tone, and in so doing, reminded both sides that partnership works best when it is built on respect, not rhetoric.

— Eyimofe Amajuoritse is a journalist covering Nigeria’s foreign relations.