The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, says security has improved in the past five months under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Ribadu disclosed this on Thursday while speaking at the 19th Annual Nigerian Editors Conference in Uyo with the theme: “Stimulating Economic Growth, Technological Advancement: Role of the Media.”
The NSA revealed that the current administration inherited tough times in terms of security.
Ribadu further appealed to Nigerians to be patient as the Tinubu-led administration tackles the security challenges confronting the country.
“We are all in this together, as a National Security Adviser, you want to hear about national security. We have been there about five months few days into the office. We have given Nigeria to President Bola Tinubu to manage it for us,” Ribadu said.
“In the last five months, I have been there by his side and have seen how things were and how things are when we started and hopefully the direction we are going is okay.
“We inherited a tough period. We appeal for patience and understanding. It’s tough times and that is the reality. We are not condemning anyone but that is the truth. Those who are in charge must say the truth, say it as it is, and then hopefully things will be better for you
“Like said, my coming is to identify with you. I also appeal to you for support, we are going through tough times. It requires all of us to come together. We are all in it together, it is not going to be for too long. Is a matter of time, it will be better. “
The NSA noted that there has been a lot of improvement in the security challenges confronting the country, stressing that militancy in the Niger Delta had been reduced drastically from what it used to be.
He disclosed that the insecurity in the South East had also been reduced since this administration came on board, appealing that it will get better.
“Let me start with the Niger Delta, at the time we took over, the production of crude oil was 1.1 mbd. Today crude oil production is over 1.7 mbd. We have witnessed three weeks without any incident of security challenges in the Niger Delta. This is the first time since 1993 but we don’t talk.
“In the southeast, when we took over last year we had 46 police stations attacked, today we don’t have one single one. In the last two months, not a single person had been killed through violent attacks in the southeast, we don’t talk. The leadership we have in our country does understand things a bit better. Work more, talk less.”
He said the federal government would continue to do everything possible to improve the welfare of its citizens and remain transparent in doing government business.
“This government is rather the most transparent ever in the history of Nigeria so things publicly. Honestly, we will be sincere and do our best,” Ribadu added.
