The appointment of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser (NSA) to the President marks a significant departure from the norm where military officers, both active and retired were chosen for the role.
Ribadu’s appointment is significant as he becomes the first non-military officer to hold the position of NSA since the return to democracy in 1999.
The Quest Times reports that President Bola Tinubu appointed Ribadu as NSA on Monday, June 19, 2023. He first came to prominence as the inaugural Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in 2003.
Although not a military officer, Ribadu attained the rank of Assistant Inspector General (AIG) in the Nigeria Police Force before his unceremonious exit.
Following his exit he ran for President in the 2011 presidential election on the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) platform under the leadership of Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.
Ribadu’s appointment comes at a time where Nigeria is battling multiple security threats across all geographical zones of the country. He will need to hit the ground running to stem the security challenges battling the nation.
Below is a list of past NSAs from 1999
Lt Gen Aliyu Mohammed Gusau (rtd) (1999-2006).
Major General Abdullahi Sarki Mukhtar (2006-2010).
Lt Gen Aliyu Mohammed Gusau (rtd) (MAR 2010- SEP 2010).
Kayode Are (Acting) (SEP 2010-OCT 2010)
Lt Gen Andrew Owoeye Azazi (2010-2012)
Col Sambo Dasuki (rtd) (2012-2015)
Major General Babagana Monguno (2015-2023).