The National Security Adviser to the President, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has raised alarm over the growing illegal firearms market in the North, particularly in the North-West region, which is grappling with high levels of poverty. Speaking at the convocation lecture of Usmanu Danfodiyo University in Sokoto, Ribadu highlighted the challenges of addressing multi-dimensional insecurity in Northern Nigeria.

Ribadu pointed out the surge in demand and supply of illegal arms in the region, with criminals and traffickers using sophisticated networks to transport weapons across Nigeria. Despite these challenges, he commended President Bola Tinubu for making significant progress in combating banditry and terrorism. Ribadu emphasized the successful rescue of over a thousand individuals, including abducted students and school children, without paying any ransom.

The NSA underscored the importance of evidence-based non-kinetic strategies and kinetic military operations targeting insurgent groups like Boko Haram. He acknowledged the difficult task facing the President but expressed determination to improve the country’s security situation. Ribadu highlighted the devastating impact of recent terrorism attacks and the alarming poverty rates in the North-West states, with Sokoto recording the highest poverty rate in the country.

Despite these challenges, Ribadu reassured that the Tinubu-led administration is committed to changing the poverty narrative through security initiatives, socioeconomic development, and inter-communal dialogue. The Renewed Hope Agenda aims to address the root causes of insecurity by tackling issues such as poverty, unemployment, social marginalization, and ethnic tensions. The government’s holistic approach seeks to foster reconciliation and create a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians.