With the appointment of Mallam Nuhu Ribadu as the National Security Adviser (NSA) to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria seeks to tackle the numerous security challenges that plague the nation.
From the deserts and Savannahs of the North-East to the oil-rich creeks of the South-South, the country faces a multifaceted and complex battle against a myriad of security threats.
In this article, The Quest Times delves into the security threats prevalent in each geographical zone and highlight the daunting tasks that lie ahead for Nuhu Ribadu as he takes on the role of National Security Adviser.
North-West: Battling bandits
The North-West region of Nigeria has been plagued by the menace of banditry in recent years. Armed groups, often referred to as bandits, have wreaked havoc on communities, causing displacement, loss of lives, and economic disruption. These criminal elements engage in various illicit activities, including kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and armed robbery. The bandits exploit the vast and sparsely populated areas, taking advantage of porous borders and inadequate security infrastructure. Addressing the banditry crisis in the North-West will be one of the top priorities for Nuhu Ribadu.
North-Central: Banditry and Fulani Herdsmen Clashes
The North-Central region of Nigeria has experienced a combination of banditry and conflicts between farmers and Fulani herdsmen. Bandits operate in this region, similar to the North-West, perpetrating kidnappings and attacks on communities. Additionally, clashes between farmers and Fulani herdsmen over land and resources have resulted in violent confrontations and loss of lives. These conflicts often exacerbate existing ethnic and religious tensions, further complicating the security landscape in the North-Central zone. Nuhu Ribadu must work towards finding sustainable solutions to curb the banditry and promote peaceful coexistence between farmers and herders.
ALSO READ:Â Portable launches Zazuu Bitters, pays tribute to Obi Cubana
North-East: Combating Boko Haram and ISWAP
The North-East region of Nigeria has been the epicenter of the Boko Haram insurgency for over a decade. Boko Haram, a jihadist group, and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), continue to pose significant threats to peace and stability in the region. They carry out deadly attacks, suicide bombings, and abductions, targeting both military installations and civilian populations. Countering the Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgency remains a formidable challenge that requires a comprehensive approach involving military operations, community engagement, and addressing the root causes of extremism.
South-South: Militancy and Oil Theft
The South-South region, known for its oil-rich Niger Delta, grapples with issues of militancy and crude oil theft. Various militant groups, driven by socio-economic grievances, have resorted to armed struggle, targeting oil installations and disrupting oil production. These activities not only lead to significant revenue losses for the country but also have devastating environmental consequences. Moreover, the illegal tapping and theft of crude oil further exacerbate the security and economic challenges in the region. Nuhu Ribadu must tackle the militancy issue in the South-South and implement measures to safeguard critical infrastructure and promote sustainable development in the Niger Delta.
ALSO READ:Â Actress Toyin Abraham reveals alleged conspiracy against her for supporting Tinubu
South-East: Eastern Security Network and Unknown Gun Men
The South-East region has witnessed a rise in security threats posed by the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the so-called Unknown Gun Men. The ESN, an armed wing of a separatist group, aims to establish an independent state of Biafra. They have been involved in clashes with security forces and attacks on government institutions. The activities of the Unknown Gun Men, whose identities and motivations remain unclear, have also contributed to the security challenges in the region. Curbing the violence, addressing grievances, and fostering dialogue will be crucial for Nuhu Ribadu in restoring peace and stability to the South-East.
South-West: Kidnappings, Street Gangs, and Cults
The South-West region of Nigeria faces security threats in the form of rampant kidnappings, street gangs, and cult activities. Kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative criminal enterprise, with individuals, including prominent personalities, falling victim to abduction. Street gangs and cults perpetrate violence, engage in criminal activities, and pose a threat to public safety. Nuhu Ribadu must work closely with law enforcement agencies, local communities, and relevant stakeholders to dismantle criminal networks, enhance intelligence gathering, and strengthen security measures in the South-West.
As Mallam Nuhu Ribadu assumes the role of National Security Adviser, he faces the daunting task of addressing the multifaceted security threats across Nigeria’s six geographical zones. His success will depend on adopting a holistic approach that combines robust law enforcement, socio-economic development, community engagement, and addressing the root causes of these security threats.
Only through such comprehensive efforts can Nigeria hope to overcome the many-headed hydra of insecurity and pave the way for a more peaceful and prosperous future.