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Tag: NATIONAL SECURITY

  • Labour law, unions and national security

    Labour law, unions and national security

    • By Ayomide Koleosho

    The relationship between Labour unions and the Nigerian Government has long been marked by tension and resistance. While Labour unions serve as legitimate machinery for protecting workers’ interests and promoting industrial peace, their influence has extended into the political and security spheres of the nation.

    The legal foundation for union activities rests on the recognition of workers’ rights to freedom of association enshrined in the Constitution. However, the increasing tendency of Labour actions to disrupt essential services and national infrastructure raises an unsettling question about where legitimate industrial agitation ends and a threat to national security begins

    Are Labour unions defenders of workers’ rights or threats to national security? Should a strike for fair wages be met with negotiation or suppression? These questions have haunted Nigeria’s labour landscape for decades. In earlier times, Labour unions were considered as the bedrock of democratic resistance and social justice. As time went on, the resistance characteristics of these unions created tensions with the Government causing them to be portrayed as enemies of stability. From colonial resistance to shutdowns in the modern day, the tension between organised labour and the state has never been far from the headlines. And today, the question is far from settled. The recent standoff between PENGASSAN and the Dangote Refinery has once again reignited debates around the role of unions in Nigeria’s economic and political stability. Are we witnessing the legitimate fight for labour rights or the rebranding of activism as a security threat?

    A deeper understanding of these issues requires an examination of the historical roots of the relations between the Nigerian State and Labour Unions, the legal and political frameworks, and how recent events continue to blur the line between national interest and workers’ rights.

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    History of labour unions

    The first formal trade union in Nigeria was formed in 1912 during the colonial era. It was called the Civil Service British Workers’ Union. Their activities initially were initially focused on labour conditions. They sought modest improvements in working conditions rather than engaging in collective bargaining or industrial action. However, the growing discontent among Nigerian workers over discriminatory wage structures and poor working conditions gradually fostered a stronger sense of solidarity and activism. This resulted in an anti-colonial agenda.

    A significant turning point came with the enactment of the Trade Union Ordinance of 1938, which granted legal recognition to trade unions and introduced a framework for their registration and regulation. Following this milestone, several unions emerged. Examples include the Railway Workers’ Union (RWU), the Post and Telegraph Workers’ Union, and the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT). The growing activities of these unions culminated in the General Strike of 1945. The strike was led by the charismatic labour leader Michael Imoudu. The strike lasted for 45 days and united over 40,000 workers in a coordinated demand for wage increases and cost of living allowances. Beyond its economic motives, the strike became a symbol of national unity and resistance against colonial economic injustice and laid the foundation for the political relevance of the labour movement in Nigeria. The post-strike period saw the emergence of umbrella organizations such as the Federation of Trade Unions of Nigeria (FTUN) in 1949

    The labour movement in Nigeria continued to evolve after independence. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) was formally constituted in 1978 as the sole national federation of trade unions, merging four existing labour centres and restructuring over 1,000 unions into 42 industrial unions. This centralisation was partly engineered by the military government of the time.

    The military era particularly marked periods of intense suppression and control over labour unions. The NLC’s opposition to the Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) led to its dissolution in 1988 under General Ibrahim Babangida’s regime. Similarly, General Sani Abacha’s government dissolved the NLC and proscribed unions like the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) in 1994, following their agitation for the restoration of democracy. Labour leaders were frequently arrested and union meetings disrupted during these periods.

    The struggle had during the military regime actually demands more than a cursory mention. Typical of military regimes, there were widespread suppression of the rights of workers and their leaders. In 1985, the Buhari military junta proscribed the Nigerian Medical Association and (NMA) and the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) for going on strike to demand increase in the salaries of doctors and improvement in public hospitals. Dr. Emmanuel Akpabio and Dr. Beko Ransome-Kuti, the NMA President and the 1st Vice-President, respectively, were detained in the Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre under the State Security (Detention of Persons) Decree No 2 of 1984. The Alao Aka-Bashorun Chambers challenged their detention in the Lagos State High Court. It was when the case was pending that both detainees were released after they had been in prison custody for six months without trial. The leaders of the NARD fled the country when the junta wanted to arrest and detain them.

    On October 1988, the senior staff union of the defunct National Electric Power Authority (NEPA) went on a three-day strike to protest the inadequate funding of the organisation, lack of safety measures and poor service conditions. Eleven of the striking workers were later arrested and accused of sabotage. They were charged with economic sabotage before a special military tribunal that sat in Jos, Plateau State. They pleaded not guilty to the monstrous charges, but were nonetheless convicted and sentenced them each to life imprisonment. The life sentence was later reduced by the military government to 10 years. As a result of local and international outrage against the criminalisation of the strike, the military president, General Ibrahim Babangida pardoned the convicts before the end of their prison terms. 

    Not even the Legal Profession was spared by the Military. In 1993, the military Government took over the Nigerian Bar Association and handed it over to the Body of Benchers via Decree No 21 of 1993. Unbowed, the  Ikeja branch of the Nigerian Bar Association resolved unanimously to challenge the obnoxious Decree.  The firm of Femi Falana & Co., owned by foremost human rights lawyer, activist and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was instructed to handle the case on behalf of all members of the branch. The firm successfully dragged the military regime to Court and won a landmark judgment which culminated in the obnoxious Decree being declared illegal and unconstitutional. See the case of Williams v Akintunde (1995) 3 NWLR (Pt 381) 101.

    The military, having been blooded by lawyers in Court, the Sani Abacha military junta promulgated the Legal Practitioners Amendment Decree No 21 of 1994 and thereby withdrew from the affairs of the NBA.  It was the only case that a Decree was successfully challenged during the military rule.

    With the return to democratic rule, some anti-union regulations were abolished in 1999. However, the government continued to seek ways to manage union power. The Trade Union (Amendment) Act of 2005 was enacted. The Act retained the NLC as a central labour union but also allowed other trade unions the freedom to federate and form umbrella unions. It also made union membership voluntary.

    Legal framework

    The 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria: The Constitution guarantees the right to freedom of association. Section 40 provides that: “every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.”

    This provision forms the constitutional foundation for trade unionism in Nigeria. However, the right is not absolute. Section 45 allows for restrictions on these rights in the interest of defence, public safety, public order, public morality, or public health. It is also subject to limitations under other laws regulating labour relations and public order.

    Trade Disputes Act 2004: This Act outlines the procedure for dispute resolution. It also defines what essential services are and places restrictions on strikes within these sectors.

    Trade Union Act 1990 and Trade Union (Amendment) Act 2005: This Act governs the formation, registration, and operation of trade unions. The 2005 amendment made union membership voluntary and allowed for the formation of multiple central labour organizations. It also sets stringent conditions for unions to meet before calling a strike.

    Concept of threat

    The Nigerian government has frequently invoked the concept of national security to justify interventions in labour disputes, especially when industrial actions disrupt critical sectors. For example, strikes have long been a weapon used by labour unions to make their demands heard and met. However, strikes are often considered a tool that disrupts the flow of economic activities and ultimately a threat to national security.

    Strikes in essential services such as healthcare, oil and gas, and education are often portrayed as direct threats to national security and economic stability. It is often met with fierce resistance. There are several examples of such situations in Nigeria.

    In January 2012, the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) launched a nationwide strike and mass protest against the government’s sudden removal of fuel subsidies. The move caused fuel prices to more than double overnight, triggering widespread outrage. The government framed the protests and strikes as a threat to national security and economic stability, especially as the shutdown paralysed major cities and halted economic activities across vital sectors.

    In response, the federal government deployed military forces to the streets and banned protests in certain areas like Lagos. The Government warned labour leaders of dire consequences. The strike was eventually suspended after intense negotiations and pressure, although the unrest revealed deep tensions between labour rights and state control under the guise of national interest.

    Similarly, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over issues related to oil sector reforms, unfair labour practices, and concerns surrounding the implementation of the newly signed Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in 2021. The union warned that failure to address its demands could lead to the shutdown of oil production and distribution. Given Nigeria’s heavy dependence on oil revenue, the government reacted swiftly. They labelled any disruption to oil supply as a national security risk. Emergency meetings were convened with top officials from the Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). The government urged PENGASSAN to shelve the planned strike, emphasising the potential economic and security fallout. Under immense pressure, the union opted for dialogue.

    Recently, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, described the shutdown of the national grid by the NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) during a recent strike in June this year as a treasonable felony and economic sabotage. In turn, the NLC condemned these remarks, asserting that their actions were legitimate and constitutionally protected. Critics often argue that such rhetoric is often hyperbolic. They argue that they are designed to deflect blame from government failures and delegitimize union causes.

    A more recent example is the dispute between Dangote Refinery and PENGASSAN. PENGASSAN accused Dangote Refinery of sacking over 800 of its members for joining the union. The union also claimed these dismissals were because the workers exercised their constitutional and labour law right to join a trade union. PENGASSAN issued a directive to halt crude and gas supplies to Dangote refinery. This resulted in significant production deferments of approximately 283,000 barrels per day of oil and 1.7 billion standard cubic feet per day of gas and impacted over 1,200 MW of power generation. The NNPC quickly highlighted the significant disruptions of this to the energy sector. The government then intervened. The Vice President, Kashim Shettima criticized PENGASSAN for holding the nation to ransom over a minor labour dispute.

    NLC condemned this stance and argued that such stance undermined workers’ rights and portrayed legitimate union activity as sabotage. The NLC asserted that the actions of Dangote Refinery violated workers’ rights.

    Furthermore, the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA) issued a caution to PENGASSAN that strikes and lockouts are expressly prohibited within Free Trade Zones, where Dangote Refinery is located, for a period of ten years from the commencement of operations.

    Impact on labour unions and the rights of workers

    The consistent framing of union actions as threats to national security and the subsequent government reactions have had a profound impact on labour unions and the right of workers in Nigeria. Some of the impacts include:

    i.                   Restrictions on Fundamental Rights: The essential services provisions and stringent strike conditions in labour laws restrict the fundamental rights of workers to freedom of expression and association. This could in turn make them susceptible to their employers’ whims.

    ii.                Harassment and Victimization: Labour leaders and members have faced arrests, detention, and other forms of harassment especially during military regimes.

    iii.             Erosion of Public Trust: The tendency of the government to resort to framing union actions as threats rather than addressing legitimate grievances can erode public trust in government institutions and exacerbate tensions.

    iv.             Influence on Policy Reform: Labour unions have historically been effective tools for advocating policy reforms and improving working conditions. Their industrial actions have often forced the government to reconsider or modify policies detrimental to the welfare of workers.

    Essential services and restrictions on strikes

    The Trade Disputes Act 2004 contains provisions related to essential services. It restricts the ability of workers in these sectors to engage in strikes that could endanger public health or safety. Section 41(1) makes it an offense for workers employed in any essential service to cease work without giving their employer at least 15 (fifteen) days’ notice of their intention to do so. The offense is committed if the cessation of work would deprive the community or any part of the community either wholly or to a substantial extent of that or any essential service.

    Additionally, the Trade Disputes (Essential Services) Act in Section 1 empowers the President to proscribe any trade union or association whose members are employed in any essential service if the President is satisfied that such a union is or has been engaged in acts calculated to disrupt the economy or acts calculated to obstruct or disrupt the smooth running of any essential service. Once proscribed, the union ceases to exist. According to the Trade Unions Act, essential services include water supply, electricity, telecommunications, health services etc.

    The Court has also made pronouncements in some cases as to whether certain services are essential services. In ENUGU STATE GOVERNMENT V. NIGERIA UNION OF TEACHERS (NUT) SUIT NO.: NICN/EN/01/2022, the National Industrial Court declared that teachers in Enugu State public primary schools are not in essential services and are therefore not prohibited from striking. Justice Oluwakayode Arowosegbe held that the adverse effects of strikes in the education sector are futuristic and would not immediately portend danger of immediate extremity on public order, morality and safety. The court dismissed the case of the Government, which sought to restrain the teachers from striking, and ordered parties back to the negotiation table.

    Recommendations

    The relationship between Labour unions and national security in Nigeria is a delicate balance between the constitutional rights of workers to associate and embark on industrial action and the perceived need of the government to maintain public order and economic stability. Addressing this requires a careful approach that considers both the fundamental rights of workers and safeguarding the stability of the country. This can be achieved by fostering transparent communication channels between Labour unions, employers, and government agencies to ensure that concerns are identified early and addressed collaboratively rather than through confrontation.

    The Government should be more proactive in addressing concerns of the unions rather than viewing their actions as national threats. Promptly attending to their concerns will prevent prolonged actions that can negatively impact the security and economy of the nation.

    Also, Judicial Intervention should be sought promptly. Seeking court opinions and orders to restrain unions from embarking on or continuing strikes while also mandating the government to consider their requests is an effective way to address the issue. It will help in ensuring that the government’s actions to suspend or proscribe unions must be backed by concrete evidence of threats to public order and not mere allegations

    In NATIONAL UNION OF ROAD TRANSPORT WORKERS (NURTW) V. OYO STATE GOVERNMENT, SUIT NO: CA/IB/263/2022, the Court of Appeal overturned the 2019 suspension of the NURTW in Oyo State and declared the action of the Governor unlawful. The Governor had proscribed the activities of the union citing breaches of peace. However, the Court of Appeal ruled that the Oyo State Government failed to provide evidence of any breach of peace or public order that would justify the suspension of the activities of the union.

    Conclusion

    The relationship between Labour unions and the issue of national security is undeniably complex and demands careful management. While Labour unions are essential defenders of the rights of workers and social justice, it is equally vital to recognize and address potential security risks that could arise from unchecked activities or external influences.

    The right of workers to unionize and embark on industrial action is not a privilege granted by the state, it is a cornerstone of democratic freedom and a vital mechanism for social and economic justice. To label such actions as threats to national security without clear and justified cause is not protection but repression.

    Governments have a duty to safeguard the nation but that duty must not be wielded as a blunt instrument to silence dissent or weaken the collective voice of workers. Strikes and protests may disrupt the status quo but they are not inherently acts of subversion. They are often cries for fairness and accountability. What is needed is a balanced framework where national security is protected through lawful and transparent means and where workers can organise without fear of being branded as enemies of the state.

    •        Koleosho is a legal practitioner and corporate governance expert

  • National Security: Prospects and challenges

    National Security: Prospects and challenges

    As Nigeria moves toward 2026, its national security environment is under sustained pressure from multiple, overlapping threats. Terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, separatist violence and election-related risks now cut across regions, stretching the capacity of the state and testing the resilience of its security institutions.
    The challenge is no longer defined solely by firepower. Criminal and extremist networks increasingly overlap, forests and cyberspace have become active security frontiers, and public expectations for both safety and accountability continue to rise. In response, Nigeria’s security strategy is being forced to evolve toward intelligence-led operations, deeper inter-agency coordination and preventive action.
    Against this backdrop, 2026 emerges as a critical test for the country’s security architecture, the military, intelligence services and the police, whose collective performance will shape national stability in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections. NICHOLAS KALU, MUSA UMAR BOLOGI AND GBENGA OMOKHUNU report:

    DSS under Ajayi — Quiet reforms, hard choices and the 2026 test

    As Nigeria confronts one of its most complex internal security environments in more than a decade, the Department of State Services (DSS) has operated largely outside public glare, yet remains central to whether the country stabilises or slips deeper into cycles of violence. Under its current Director-General, Mr. Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, the Service has embarked on a cautious but notable recalibration, one that prioritises intelligence discipline, inter-agency synergy and institutional restraint.

    With 2026 approaching as a politically sensitive and security-heavy year, the DSS stands at a defining moment: to consolidate recent gains or be overwhelmed by rising expectations.

    Ajayi assumed office in August 2024, at a time when confidence in Nigeria’s intelligence architecture had been shaken. His emergence marked a deliberate shift away from confrontation-driven internal security management toward a more methodical intelligence-first posture.

    One of the earliest indicators of this shift was the DSS’s compliance with court orders on prolonged detentions. In 2025, the Service quietly released several individuals previously held without trial and paid court-mandated compensations in cases of unlawful detention. These actions, acknowledged by senior legal stakeholders, helped to de-escalate long-running tensions between the DSS, the judiciary and civil society.

    Though not dramatic in operational terms, these steps restored a measure of institutional credibility and reduced legal distractions that had historically drained the Service’s focus.

    Operational achievements beneath the surface

    Operationally, the DSS under Ajayi has focused less on publicity and more on intelligence coordination. This approach became evident in high-value counter-terrorism outcomes recorded in 2025, particularly the arrest of senior Ansaru terrorist leaders Abu Baraa and Mahmuda, figures linked to the Kuje correctional facility attack and multiple high-profile abductions in the North-West and North-Central regions.

    According to the Office of the National Security Adviser, the arrests followed months of layered intelligence work involving surveillance, human intelligence and technical tracking, signalling a maturation of intelligence fusion involving the DSS, military intelligence and other agencies.

    A key policy turning point came late in 2025 when President Bola Tinubu directed the DSS to deploy trained forest guards nationwide, tasking them with flushing out terrorists and bandits exploiting Nigeria’s vast forest corridors.

    The directive placed the DSS at the centre of a new territorial intelligence strategy, one that recognises forests not just as military theatres but as intelligence ecosystems requiring sustained presence, local sources and long-term monitoring. For Ajayi, the challenge has been translating training into operational effectiveness without over-militarising intelligence roles.

    Challenges moving into 2026

    The DSS faces formidable challenges in 2026 which include expanding threat geography, with terrorism, banditry and separatist violence no longer confined to predictable regions, intelligence saturation, as multiple threats compete for limited analytical and operational resources, election-related risks, with the 2027 general elections approaching, heightening the risk of politically motivated violence, sabotage and foreign interference, and public expectation gaps, as Nigerians increasingly demand visible security outcomes from institutions designed to operate invisibly

    Looking ahead, several trends are likely to define the DSS under Ajayi in 2026:

    Intelligence before force

    The DSS is expected to deepen its emphasis on preventive intelligence, prioritising disruption of plots before they manifest into attacks. This includes tighter monitoring of extremist financing, online radicalisation and cross-border movements.

    Technology-driven intelligence

    With increased budgetary allocation to the security sector, the DSS is projected to expand investments in signals intelligence, cyber-monitoring and data analytics, enhancing early-warning capacity.

    Deeper inter-agency fusion

    Successful joint operations in 2025 are likely to encourage more structured intelligence-sharing platforms between the DSS, the military, the Police and ONSA, reducing duplication and rivalry.

    Election security role

    Without direct visibility, the DSS will play a critical background role in election security, identifying flashpoints, monitoring political violence triggers and advising preventive deployments.

    Rights-sensitive operations

    Ajayi’s early corrective steps suggest the Service will continue balancing security enforcement with legal compliance, aware that legitimacy strengthens intelligence cooperation at community levels.

    Conclusion

    Under Oluwatosin Adeola Ajayi, the DSS has begun a careful transformation, away from institutional defensiveness toward disciplined intelligence leadership. While the Service remains constrained by secrecy and structural limits, its recent achievements in counter-terrorism coordination, legal compliance and strategic restraint suggest a more mature internal security posture.

    In 2026, the DSS will be judged not by visibility, but by absence, the attacks that do not happen, the crises quietly defused, and the intelligence failures avoided. Whether Ajayi’s reforms endure under mounting pressure will determine the Service’s true contribution to Nigeria’s national security in the year ahead.

    From insurgency to banditry: Nigeria’s Armed Forces stretched across multiple fronts

    Nigeria’s security landscape became increasingly tense towards the end of 2025, as the armed forces found themselves severely overstretched, waging simultaneous battles against a resurgence of terrorism and criminal violence. The military has continued to confront Boko Haram and its splinter groups—the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād (JAS)—in the North East, alongside persistent banditry and kidnappings in the North West, violent herder attacks across the North Central region, and secessionist agitation in the South East.

    The intensity of the threats spread to North Central states such as Kwara, which had hitherto been largely spared since the escalation of insecurity following the emergence of Boko Haram in the North East in 2009; by the tail end of the year, the deteriorating situation was underscored by the abduction and killing of several people, kidnapping of more than 400 students/pupils, teachers, and other citizens in November alone.

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    At least 230 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State, 24 girls from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi State, 34 worshippers from a church in Kwara State, a bride, bridesmaids and several others in Chacho village, Wurno Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

    In addition, several innocent civilians were killed by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers across the North-East, North-West, and North-Central regions. The deteriorating situation became so precarious that President Bola Tinubu was compelled to declare a state of emergency on security. By this declaration, the President directed the Police, Department of State Service (DSS), and the Nigerian Army to recruit more personnel to boost their manpower. He also directed the DSS  to immediately deploy all the forest guards already trained “to flush out the terrorists and bandits lurking in our forests”, declaring that “there will be no more hiding places for agents of evil.”

    The President’s directive put the Armed Forces on high alert, prompting a reorganisation of the command structure through the appointment of new operational commanders and the intensification of operations to crush terrorists and kidnappers, while ensuring the release of abducted victims, including all the 230 schoolchildren and 12 teachers were abducted from a Catholic boarding school in Niger State, 24 girls from Government Girls’ Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi State, and 34 worshippers from a church in Kwara State.

    Economic hope, insecurity fears

    At a time when the Tinubu administration was recording economic stability in early 2025, insecurity was on the rise. According to the Nigeria Development Update (NDU) released by the World Bank in October 2025, Nigeria’s economy expanded by 3.9 per cent year-on-year in the first half of 2025, up from 3.5 per cent in the same period of 2024. However, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) reported that the humanitarian situation in North-East Nigeria continued to deteriorate in April 2025 due to escalating conflict and rising insecurity.

    Military responses

    Despite the setbacks, the Nigerian military also recorded successes against armed groups across the theaters of operations.

    In October, the Defence Headquarters stated that in September 2025, troops rescued 180 kidnapped civilians, arrested 450 terrorists/bandits and killed scores of terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements. It also said that 39 terrorists surrendered to the troops, while 63 assorted arms, 4,475 ammunition and 294 explosive items such as grenades and IED marking materials were recovered.

    The Nigerian military has also confirmed that several terrorists were killed by Nigerian Air Force fighter aircraft along the Triangle, Triangle in Borno and Yobe states.

    In the South East, the military confirmed the killing of IPOB/ESN commanders, including Ifeanyi Okorienta, also known as Gentle de Yahoo, who had terrorised the region for years.

    And just recently, the United States, with the approval of the Nigerian government, launched  “powerful and deadly” strikes against groups affiliated with ISIL (ISIS), in the North West.

    Towards a more secured 2026

     President Bola Tinubu has promised a more secure country in 2026. This followed his presentation of the 2026 budget to the National Assembly, where he earmarked a massive N5.41 trillion to the defence, and security sector.

    The money would be spent, according to him, to increase the fighting capacity of the armed forces and other security agencies through improved personnel strength and the acquisition of advanced platforms and hardware.

    Short of men, stretched by Crime: Nigeria Police seek reset in 2026

    In 2026, Egbetokun’s leadership of the Nigeria Police Force will continue to face significant challenges related to funding, managing complex security threats, and institutional reforms; simultaneously, key prospects lie in leveraging community policing strategies, modernization efforts, and enhanced regional cooperation.

    The police this year (2026) face significant challenges in national security, including evolving cyber threats, organized crime fueled by drug and arms trafficking, and strained resources and public trust. Equally, crucial prospects lie in leveraging new technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data analytics, enhancing inter-agency and international cooperation, and strengthening community policing initiatives to improve intelligence gathering and public relations.

    The force will contend with a rise in sophisticated, technology-driven crimes, including AI-driven cyberattacks, deepfakes used for disinformation and fraud, and the increasing convergence of illicit drugs and small arms trafficking fueling organized crime and extremism.

    Findings revealed that the police face a “brain drain” of experienced officers through retirement and attrition, and the struggle to recruit new personnel amid a challenging social climate.

    The development limits operational readiness and the ability to respond effectively to new demands of insecurity. This and many more issues has made President Bola Tinubu to order the recruitment of more personnel to tackle the insecurity challenges across the country, especially in the northern part.

    There’s a growing emphasis on creating specialized platforms for real-time, actionable threat intelligence sharing among different security agencies and international partners to combat transnational threats like cybercrime and terrorism.

    The focus on community policing and public engagement strategies is a major prospect for building trust, gathering local intelligence, and fostering a collaborative environment for problem-solving with citizens and partners.

    The crisis in recruitment and retention is forcing a shift toward a more holistic approach focusing on officer wellness, job satisfaction, and a reevaluation of traditional career paths to attract and retain talent. The evolving threat landscape highlights the need for specialized training in areas like cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and human rights, which presents an opportunity to professionalize the force and improve its legitimacy and effectiveness.

    This year, national security efforts for the police will be defined by a shift toward data-driven policing and managing a persistent workforce crisis. While technological integration offers significant prospects for efficiency, it simultaneously creates new challenges in governance, public trust, and the complexity of modern crime.

    Departments are increasingly adopting unified platforms that break down “data silos,” allowing for seamless information sharing between body-worn cameras, license plate readers, and surveillance systems.

    Findings has also revealed that the use of autonomous units for hazardous tasks, such as bomb disposal or search-and-rescue, is projected to grow, with a global market for law enforcement robots potentially reaching over $4.3 billion by the early 2030s. Virtual and Augmented Reality will become standard for high-stakes training, such as de-escalation techniques and responding to mental health crises, providing a controlled environment for complex scenarios.

    The NPF would also face election pressure, due to the fact that 2026 is preceding the 2027 general elections, the police will be strained by demands to secure polling sites, manage protests, and remain politically neutral in increasingly polarized environments.

    Recall that the Police Service Commission (PSC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) have commenced the recruitment process of Fifty Thousand (50,000) Police Constables into the Nigeria Police Force, as directed by President Bola Tinubu.

    The Presidential directive is aimed at strengthening community policing, enhancing internal security and expanding the manpower base of the Nigeria Police Force. The recruitment portal for applications from eligible Nigerians has been opened.

    Egbetokun has also sought for proactive policing and collaboration with other security agencies (e.g., the military) and international partners (e.g., AFRIPOL) as well as joint efforts, such as the “G-7” initiative among states to combat cross-border crime.

    Also, the implementation of a revised training curriculum for recruits, covering topics like human rights, computer studies, and the Police Act 2020, aims to enhance professionalism and align with international best practices.

    The police boss recently mandated all commands to implement action plans aimed at a 50% reduction in crime rates which, if successful, will further reduce the pressure faced by the force.  

    The wild north-west is rising into a broad warzone. Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna and Sokoto are hit hardest by organized bandit gangs. Data gathered show that fatalities in this region exceeded 9,300 in 2023–25. Kidnappings reached 716 incidents. There were 290 incidents in 2024 alone.

    Rival criminal networks now openly terrorize villages: cattle rustling, mass shootings and child abductions are daily reality. In 2025 bandits even struck outside their old haunts – gunmen abducted 303 students in Niger State and 25 girls in Kebbi.

    A new group, Lakurwa, epitomizes the threat: it fuses Islamist extremism with outlaw tactics. These gangs hide in porous forests and demand record ransoms (one Delta family’s kidnappers asked ₦30 billion). The flashpoint is self-sustaining: villagers now pay “levies to NSAGs” (armed groups) just to farm.

    The result is a self-reinforcing insecurity cycle. In 2026, it is expected that these scenarios would be a thing of the past.

  • Dangers of semantics within the national security orbit

    Dangers of semantics within the national security orbit

    By Oseloka H. Obaze

    To insiders, the proverbial glass is neither hardly ever half full nor half empty. Insiders, who also know where the proverbial corpses are buried, can always tell if a glass was half-filled, or full, and drank down to half. In our present national circumstances, only outsiders who are not within the realm and orbit of critical decision-making would presume a glass to be half full or half empty, more so in moments of heady decision making pertaining to national security issues confronting Nigeria.

    There are inherent dangers in deploying expedient semantics into national security matters.  For national security policies to be efficacious, the situations, issues, actors, scenarios, assessments and decisions must each be explicitly characterized; and those characterizations, must be commonly shared, without any ambiguities. Failure to do so has dire consequences. Consequently, lack of clarity in the identification, definition and assessment of prevalent challenges, risks eliciting inadequate or wrong policy responses. This is a risk presently comforting Nigeria. History can be instructive. In 1991, Iraq invaded Kuwait, months after an American envoy, reportedly offered a politically correct, but offer-hand response to Saddam Hussein that was laden with semantic ambiguity. The consequences were dire, for Kuwait and for Iraq.

    Whereas diplomats can and do have the professional prerogative of deploying obfuscating words when conveying variants of messages; in tactical, intelligence, military and security matters, wordings and language pertaining to policies, command, control and communication, has to be clear, precise, unfettered and disambiguated. There is clear and present danger inherent in the ensuing controversy over the semantics on the prevailing insecurity in Nigeria, and whether the conduct, actions and results of the ongoing visceral violence, bloodletting and killings, are tantamount to genocide or not. 

    Genocide has very clear definition, global examples and thresholds.  Genocide is not a one-off event, but a progressive gruesome pogrom that manifests fully, if left unchecked.  By definition, “Genocide is the deliberate, systematic destruction of an ethnic, racial, religious, or national group.”   And here is the crux of the issue; has Nigeria reached the applicable threshold? Are the globally applicable benchmarks for determining genocide, now prevalent in Nigeria?

    Put in its proper context, Raphael Lemkin, the coiner of that terminology, did state that “genocide does not necessarily mean the immediate destruction of a nation. It is intended rather to signify a coordinated plan of different actions aiming at the destruction of essential foundations of the life of national groups, with the aim of annihilating the groups themselves.”  Coordinated plan.  Different actions. Destruction of essential foundations. Aim of annihilating groups.  These are critical component of the genocide mosaic. Horrible things happen when a series of small unchecked actions converge.

    In 1948, by virtue of the U.N. Genocide Convention, any form of linguistic ambiguities arising from semantics, was removed, and the legal definitional basis of measuring acts of genocide was expanded to include, “acts like killing, causing serious harm, imposing conditions of life that lead to destruction, preventing births, and forcibly transferring children of the group.”   The common variables of genocide are the perpetrators, the intent, the act, and the victims.

    Nigerians are acutely aware that numerous Nigerians have been and are still being killed.  Most are targeted and killed as a collective:  in their farms, homesteads, communities or in their churches. Nigerians know also of the pervasive insecurity nationwide, as well as killings arising from herders-farmers conflict, and those from Boko Haram insurgency.  Above all, Nigerians know of the rise in banditry, the ungoverned spaces, and undoubtedly, the fact that indigenous communities were being sacked and Christian churches were being razed, and their congregations brazenly killed in cold bold.   Names of communities like Owo, Basa, Oturkpo, Akpanta, Guma, Yelunta, Wanunne,  Gwoza, Tsafe, Giedam and Mangu,  gradually crept into the national consciousness and lexicon, as places where massacres took place.  These were places and silos where genocidal acts might have been committed.

    Across the nation, the number of killings has risen progressively. And beyond doubt, the key variables remain ever present in every instance:  the intent, the act, the victims, and the perpetrators. Because the perpetrators were extremist groups, notably Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), it matters little, if you term their activities jihadist or genocide.  The enormity and consistency of the killings cannot be ignored or diluted by labels and definitions. In 2024, well over 2,194 people were killed by Fulani armed bandits. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, 2,266 people were killed.  These represent a high fraction of the over 600,000 deaths arising from insecurity nationwide between 2024 and first half of 2025.

    The irony was and remains that those who obliquely and conveniently favoured or tacitly deferred to a jihadist intent and mission, were mute as their compatriots were being slaughtered. Once the acts were characterized as genocide, the same people turned defensive promptly.  As it turned out, the nation itself was in utter denial, more so, the leadership and the ruling APC government.  It took U.S. President Donald Trump to utter the defining G-word on October 31 and declare Nigeria a “Country of Particular Concern” for the national leadership to awake from its pathetic slumber.

    Those who have argued that in Nigeria, Christian and Muslims alike were being killed may have a point, insofar as those killings were those resulting from farmers-herders and other resource-control induced conflicts.   But the ISWAP bandits and Fulani jihadists were and are still on a well-defined mission of annihilation.  We cannot gloss over this reality. Their audacity, scope, capacity, resources, are also indicative of broad internal or external support.   Nigeria’s combined national security apparatus seems by design or default, utterly incapable of interdicting and containing the bandits. As internal compromises are made, and infiltration becomes rife, Nigerian soldiers are being mercilessly slaughtered.  The fate of defenceless civilians is even more precarious and dire.

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    Besides the annihilation tendencies, when entire communities are sacked, their homesteads are frequently occupied and their natural resources coveted by the bandits and their paymasters.  So, if the goal is not genocide, then it must be economic and the appropriation of rare earth minerals domiciled in the environs of the sacked communities.  Either way, Nigeria is at grave risk.

    While the inherent dangers of semantics in the national security orbit persists, secular Nigeria, certainly, does not want to join the  ranks of nations only remembered for being places where unfettered massacres took place and acts of genocide were perpetrated.  The trajectory to that dubious distinction, which is already afoot, starts with wilful governmental indifference, denial and inaction.  Historically, there are striking similarities between the emergence of Fulani bandits in Nigeria and the emergence of the Al-Shabaab militia in Somalia and the Janjaweed militia in Sudan.  We know where Somalia and Sudan have been as war torn nations. We need not toe that path.

    Nigeria is already a very polarized nation at war with itself.  Early warnings are indicative. So, whether the ongoing killings in Nigeria are sufficiently sectarian to qualify as jihad, genocide or not, is immaterial.  This is not the time for our leaders to be apologetic or to deploy exculpatory semantics.  Given Nigeria’s diversity, the dismembering of any ethnicity, religion, or indigenous community is not a circus. Put plainly, here is the inconvenient truth. There is an unfolding dissembling process in Nigeria.  These killings represent a precursor to more entrenched mayhem if left unchecked. If these acts seem, smell, sound, feel, or are coloured like genocide, then the process must be stopped before it is concretized, and Nigeria arrives a point of no return, where it will be confirmed that acts of genocide were indeed perpetrated, even if in silos.

    Deploying semantics, apologies and negotiations as rationalizing ploys or policies is starkly defeatist. We are at war with the bandits.   Let’s fight that war in a full frontal manner or risk being consumed. Rule of law and the responsibility to protect Nigerians, compel immediate action, not apologia.  A stitch in time saves nine.

    •Obaze is MD/CEO, Selonnes Consult – a policy, governance and management consulting firm in Awka.

  • We’re deliberate in harnessing technology to combat national security threats – CDI

    We’re deliberate in harnessing technology to combat national security threats – CDI

    The Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI), Lt.-General Emmanuel Undiandeye, said the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA) is intentional in its efforts to harness the capabilities of technology and human intelligence resources for the attainment of national security objectives.

    Gen. Undiandeye said at the 2025 Chief of Defence Intelligence Annual Conference, in Abuja, on Monday.

    The conference with the theme, “Multi-source Intelligence Innovation in a Challenging National Security Ecosystem”, was attended by senior defence intelligence officers, Nigeria’s Defence Attaches/Advisers in various countries, regional directors, and state coordinators. 

    Gen. Undiandeye noted that Nigeria’s contemporary security environment remains dynamic and complex, with insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and organised crimes persisting across various theatres. 

    The CDI added that while security services continue to demonstrate courage, professionalism, and resilience, the modern security landscape requires a multi-dimensional and multi-agency approach to intelligence collection, analysis, and dissemination. 

    He said this underscores the need to deepen our understanding and integration of multiple intelligence sources – human, signal, open source, imagery, and data – to enhance institutional awareness and enable leadership decision-making.

    “Therefore, multi-source intelligence lies at the heart of our ability to anticipate, dictate, and neutralise emerging threats, integrating information from diverse domains: military, democratic, economic, technological, and socio-political, which enhances our capacity to generate actionable intelligence. 

    “By leveraging innovations in data analytics, artificial intelligence, and interagency information sharing, we can achieve a unified national intelligence framework capable of supporting good strategies and operational level decision-making.”

    According to the CDI, in line with this vision, the DIA has commenced several initiatives aimed at monitoring the intelligence landscape, which include: digitisation of the intelligence processes, enhancement of the special and cyber intelligence capabilities, and the establishment of specialised tax groups to foster collaboration with other intelligence and law enforcement agencies. 

    These reforms, according to him, are designed to ensure the intelligence production remains timely, relevant, and comprehensive in addressing the demands of our national security. 

    Gen. Undiandeye said the integration of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics into intelligence work are proven to be a transformative force globally, as the volume of information generated daily across digital and digital domains far exceeds the capacity of manual analysis, hence the DIA is committed to embedding such technologies across its operations to achieve decisive advantage in both peace and comfort.

    He said, “Furthermore, the Agency continues to promote interagency synergy and regional cooperation, recognising that national security cannot be achieved in isolation, Our defence advances and attaches play a vital role in advancing intelligence diplomacy and fostering partnerships with allied nations through active measures, intelligence exchanges, and joint training, which can strengthen Nigeria’s strategic posture and contribute to regional stability. 

    “The threats confronting Nigeria and the wider sub-region are not limited to traditional warfare. Transnational organised crime cyber threats, misinformation, and other security challenges that demand a holistic approach abound. 

    “This is why our commitment to multi-source intelligence innovations extends beyond technology that encompasses human capacity development, institutional reforms, and the cultivation of trust among stakeholders. And this is why the Defence Intelligence Agency is investing heavily in the training and the training of each personnel to enhance analytical proficiency and ethical standards.”

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    The CDI said the DIA had commenced the use of Defence Intelligence Agency Technology Centre (DIATC), established last year, noting that the centre is responsible for conducting operations, utilising the latest working-age technologies and innovations. 

    “It will focus on five key areas to include cyber security, artificial intelligence, robotics, machine learning, and data analytics, all of which are evolving new technologies,” he said. 

    Gen. Undiandeye said the conference offers an opportunity to examine the evolving nature of threats confronting the country, review operational experiences and strengthen cooperation between the DIA, defence advisors, counterparts across national and international security institutions, and the people.

    He added that the gathering also provides an avenue to harness the collective expertise of participants who are developing sustainable strategies to save Nigeria’s national interests. 

    The CDI noted that the conference was an annual forecast of events, which afforded the agency the opportunity to evaluate the activities of our defence sections as well as regional and state services.  

  • RE-Mining Cadastre Office, A threat to national security

    RE-Mining Cadastre Office, A threat to national security

    By Engr. Tafa Bakori

    I came across an opinion article penned by a suspected fictitious character named Biliyaminur Surajo titled, “Mining Cadastre Office, A Threat to National Security” published on Sahara Reporters and other online media which by all intents and purposes was crafted to not only diminish the great job the Mining Cadastral office (MCO) is doing but also to cast aspersion on the foremost cadastral agency and bring it to disrepute. 

    As a mining stakeholder for over 15 years, I am an insider conversant with the inner workings of MCO and I’ve been following with keen interest ongoing reforms by the present administration to reform and reposition the mining sector. It therefore beggars’ belief that any sane individual can seek to denigrate such efforts with patently outlandish claims as encapsulated in the jaundiced article. 

    The writer claims that the MCO “has become synonymous with corruption, bribery, and unprofessionalism” without any shred of evidence but rather put together a contraption of conjectures and false narratives to justify his warped conclusion. 

    Reading through the piece, I saw a desperate attempt by the writer to allude to outrightly preposterous postulations by“faceless industry stakeholders”, more like an attempt to “give a dog a bad name, in order to hang it”.

    He cited a crisis of overlapping titles, alleging that “for a fee, fake community consent documents can be obtained through MCO channels”. This is not only far from the truth, but a blatant lie. With my vast knowledge of the mining sector, I can assert that the allegations are totally baseless and unfounded because MCO does not get involved in obtaining land owner/occupier consent which is the responsibility of the applicant after the successful submission of application, and the receipt of their priority number.

    If Mr. Surajo knows those purportedly claiming to be MCO agents or officers carrying out such nefarious activities, he should bring them forward or submit details of such unscrupulous individuals to the security agencies for necessary action. The onus of proof falls on those who alleges. One would have expected some “naming and shaming” at the least, but carrying out a hatchet job hinged on falsehoods can be such an arduous task.

    Claiming that public complaints on overlapping titles fell on “deaf ears” is also disingenuous to anyone conversant with happenings in the sector. 

    While it a known fact that during the process of migrating the cadastral system from computerized to the online Electronic Mining Cadastreplus (eMC+), some of the valid titles couldn’t be moved due to some systemic issues, several efforts have been made to correct the anomaly. I am aware that the rectification took some time which might be responsible for instances of overlapping titles that were hitherto seen on the eMC+ platform. 

    During that period of glitch, it was reported that applicants saw free mining areas on the platform which already has valid owners before the migration and these caused the few incidences of overlapping titles. From my investigations, it was gathered that a standing committee has since been at work resolving the issues amicably and it is pertinent that those that are facing similar challenges reach out to the agency. 

    I have it on good authority that the cases that have been brought to the attention of the agency have been resolved till date. It is also pertinent to note that the MCO has never lost a single case in court which implies that the agency is guided at all times by extant provisions of the law and the statutes guiding the operations of the agency.

    The writer also erroneously alleged that” beyond official fees, industry sources report a pervasive culture of additional payments to individual MCO officers”. From my experience over the years, this is likely a case of itinerant fake consultants posturing as MCO staff. An instance revealed by the grapevine is a case of a suspect presently cooling his heels in the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Garki, Abuja for impersonating the Special Technical Assistant (STA) to the DG, Madaki Joseph. The suspect, one Shehu Bokane, operating from his base in Niger state has allegedly duped his victims of several millions of Naira, and this is verifiable. This is just one instance and there could be many more at large. What anyone privy to such malfeasance should do is to report the culprits to the authorities instead of tarring an entire agency with the brush of corruption based on false premise or spurious allegations. 

    Not done trying to justify his fables, the writer described that Mineral Sector Support for Economic Diversification Project (MINDIVER), funded by the World Bank designed to prevent duplication of titles as a failure. While the eMC+ system faced initial hitches, the system has largely digitized the application processes as all mineral title applications are now submitted exclusively through the system. Like the DG MCO, Engr. Obadiah Nkom said at some fora, “It’s an entirely online platform that offers transparency, efficiency, and real-time access.” Feedback from industry stakeholders back this assertion. 

    From an informed perspective, the initial glitches that affected the migration of the cadastral system to the eMC+ platform might have been averted if the MCO technical staff had some input in the building of the electronic system. That was not the case as I learnt the agency only made inputs and modifications after the system funded by MINDIVER, was delivered.

    I was privileged to attend the recently held African Natural Resources and Energy Investment Summit (AFNIS) in Abuja, graced by some African ministers of mining and energy amongst other global and continental mining players. The robust engagements I saw, the Ministerial roundtable convened by the African Minerals Strategy Group (AMSG) and chaired by the Solid Minerals Development Minister, Dr. Dele Alake is a sharp contrast to the picture of purported “wasted foreign trips to mining conferences” painted by the writer. 

    It was also recently widely reported that some Nigerian mining professionals went on a capacity building training to Murdoch University in Australia. If that doesn’t represent fruits of Nigeria’s proactive engagement with the global mining community, I wonder what it is.

    While there might be need for improvement in some areas like any other human endeavor, it smacks of utter mischief for the writer to paint a gloomy picture of the operations of MCO and by extension the mining sector. For the first time, in our nation’s recent history, the mining sector is experiencing a resurgence on account of the renewed focus of the Tinubu administration indeveloping solid minerals alongside the tenacious passion of Minister Alake in carrying on with reforms.

    It is quite ludicrous that the writer will attempt to describe an agency that is renowned across the African continent as leading a very efficient cadastral system as a threat to national security. Unlike the bogus conclusion of the imaginary stakeholder, “the future of Nigeria’s solid minerals sector—and potentially the nation’s economic diversification” is bright and on course. No hatchet job or sponsored machinations of those frustrated by laudable efforts to reposition the mining sector must be allowed to stand or mislead the public. All Nigerians and responsible stakeholders should join hands with government to take our mining industry to greater heights

    Engr. Tafa Bakori, a mining stakeholder, writes from Niger State.

  • 2025 Outlook – National Security: Prospects, challenges, emerging threats

    2025 Outlook – National Security: Prospects, challenges, emerging threats

    As Nigeria ushers in 2025, the nation’s security landscape remains a blend of achievements, emerging threats, and persistent challenges. While the fight against Boko Haram in the Northeast has yielded significant victories, new challenges, including the emergence of the Lakurawa terror group in the Northwest and continued instability in the Southeast and North Central regions, have come to the fore. NICHOLAS KALU, GBENGA OMOKHUNU AND MUSA UMAR BOLOGI examine the situation and provide the outlook for the year ahead.

    Progress in the Northeast

    The Northeast, once the epicenter of Boko Haram’s insurgency, has seen a significant reduction in terrorist activities over the past few years. The Nigerian Armed Forces, supported by local vigilantes and regional alliances such as the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have reclaimed most territories previously controlled by Boko Haram. Military operations like Operation Hadin Kai have focused on dismantling the group’s strongholds, disrupting their logistics, and degrading their operational capacity.

    In 2024, military reports highlighted the surrender of over 4,000 insurgents, many of whom were reintegrated into society through the government’s Operation Safe Corridor. The once-pervasive fear of attacks on schools, markets, and public gatherings has significantly diminished, restoring a semblance of normalcy to cities like Maiduguri and Damaturu. However, challenges remain, particularly with the splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which continues to pose a threat along the Lake Chad Basin.

    Emerging Threat in the Northwest: Lakurawa

    While the Northeast records notable progress, the Northwest has become a new theater of concern. A terror group known as Lakurawa has risen, leveraging the region’s pre-existing banditry crisis. Operating primarily in Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara states, Lakurawa combines terror tactics with organized crime, including kidnapping for ransom, cattle rustling, and attacks on villages.

    The group’s emergence highlights the intersection of economic vulnerabilities, porous borders, and limited governance in the region. Unlike Boko Haram, whose ideology is rooted in extremism, Lakurawa thrives on socio-economic discontent, making it a more complex challenge. Security experts warn that if unchecked, the group could destabilize the region further, extending its operations into neighboring states and countries.

    Southeast: The Challenge of Unknown Gunmen

    In the Southeast, the activities of “unknown gunmen” continue to threaten peace and stability. These groups, often linked to separatist agitations, have targeted security personnel, government facilities, and civilians. Despite heavy military deployment and the establishment of joint task forces, the attacks persist, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current strategies.

    The socio-political context of the Southeast complicates security interventions. The distrust between federal authorities and local communities often hinders intelligence-sharing and cooperation, a gap that criminal elements exploit.

    North Central: Kidnapping and banditry

    The North Central region grapples with kidnapping and banditry, particularly in states like Niger, Benue, and Kogi. Highways and rural communities have become hotspots for kidnappers who target commuters and farmers for ransom. The proliferation of small arms and the absence of effective policing in many rural areas exacerbate the situation.

    Need for community engagement, collaborations

    As it seems, the government’s measures, despite various successes, seem to have had limited impact. The need for a more robust approach, including community community engagement and intelligence-driven operations, is increasingly evident.

    As Nigeria steps into 2025, the country’s security landscape remains a pressing concern. The alarming rate of insecurity, characterized by terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and cybercrime, poses a significant threat to national stability and development ¹. To combat these challenges, it is imperative that the country’s security agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the armed forces, and the police, work together seamlessly.

    The need for interagency collaboration and coordination cannot be overstated. As the security situation continues to evolve, with new threats emerging and old ones adapting, a unified response is required to stay ahead of these threats.

    This synergy is crucial for staying ahead of emerging threats and addressing the nation’s security challenges. Nigeria’s security agencies have been intensifying their efforts to stay ahead of emerging threats, achieving notable successes despite the complexities of their mandate. As the new year unfolds, these agencies are poised to build on their gains, implementing strategic plans to address the nation’s evolving security challenges.

    A new leadership for the Nigeria’s top spy agency

    Mr Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, on 29th August, 2024 resumed office as the Director General of the Department of State Services a pledge to refocus the Service towards covertness and studied silence. He had also pledged commitment to surmount challenges confronting Nigeria’s economic, political and security environments.

    He took over from Alhaji Yusuf Magaji Bichi, who urged management  and staff of the service to cooperate with the new DG to enable him succeed in the task ahead,

    Mr Ajayi harped on unity of purpose  among staff and enjoined them to remain disciplined and professional in the discharge of their duties.

    Mr Ajayi assured that he would work with relevant stakeholders with utmost commitment and deep sense of responsibility so as to surmount challenges confronting Nigeria’s economic, political and security environments. The objective, according to him, was to achieve peace and stability necessary for development. He encouraged resourcefulness, dedication and loyally to the Service, constituted authorities and Nigeria at large.

    Ajayi hit the ground rolling with return to the usual silence that characterized the Service and refocus on a more tactical and strategic style to tackling the menace of insecurity in the country.

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    While creating a seemingly more relaxed atmosphere, with even the reduction of fierce looking personnel in public but remaining anonymous in plain sight in a bid to de-escalate tension, the Service has been working quietly to prevent security challenges as well as unleash hell on perpetrators.

    This has led to several quiet success stories for instance, operatives of the Department of State Service (DSS), on Friday night carried out an ambush at Dogon Dawa community in Mairiga Local Government Area of Niger State, successfully neutralized several terrorists.

    The operation followed a well-coordinated ambush upon intelligence gathering by officers and men of the DSS that led to the death of several bandits while some narrowly escaped with bullet wounds. The operatives of the DSS recovered three AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles from the fleeing bandits.

    Sources revealed that the ambush by the DSS was the result of weeks of intelligence gathering and the interception and analysis of communication by the bandits.

    It was gathered that the operation was one of the several daring operations carried out by the DSS in the Northwest and Northeast which led to successful elimination and capture of several bandits. It was also gathered that the DSS also led several successful operations against the proscribed Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) in the South-East. Renewed intelligence gathering by the Service helped other security agencies, especially, the military in neutralizing or capturing several terrorists in many parts of the country.

    Also, three weeks ago, in the Janyau Fulani Area in Gusau, Gusau-Kaura Namoda Road, in Zamfara State, as well as in Dalori quarters, Maiduguri, Borno State, DSS operatives apprehended notorious bandits terrorizing parts of the Northeast and Northwest.

    While operating covertly to decimate insurgents, Ajayi does not alienate the service as he continues to push for collaborations that would ensure stability in the country. Realising everyone wants the same things which are peace, stability and development, he stresses the need for all have a sense of belonging to address the myriad of challenges faced by Nigerians.

    For 2025 he sees the key to tackling the problem in intelligence and cooperation among all security outfits I’m the country and working with all relevant stakeholders without leaving anyone out from the community to working with past DGs of the Agency.

    President Bola Tinubu, during a recent investiture ceremony of 91 graduates of Executive Intelligence Management Course (EIMC-17) at the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) Abuja appreciated Mr. Ajayi’s dexterity and wide reach.

    The President expressed admiration for the recent remarkable achievements of the DGSS, the National Institute, and Service as a whole.

    The President who was represented by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, commitment to the Service in  recognition of numerous outstanding efforts by the DGSS in improving the country’s internal security.

    He described the occasion as one that has redefined inter-agency collaboration, evident in the strong presence of various Security Chiefs and six former DGs of the DSS .

    The President extolled Mr. Ajayi for bringing his predecessors together, describing it as a clear message in bolstering unity of purpose, in the interest of the Service.

    Military’s significant strides

    Despite the plethora of security challenges, the Nigerian military made significant strides in combating these threats. The successes achieved by the military can be attributed to several key factors, such as unwavering dedication of troops, injection of New platforms, equipment and technology, which enhanced the military’s capabilities and enabled them to respond more effectively to emerging threats, rejigged operations, revamped military’s operational strategies which allow for more effective and efficient use of resources, and improved coordination by the authorities which improved coordination mechanisms, facilitate better collaboration and communication among different stakeholders.

    The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) was up and doing in coordinating all security and intelligence agencies in Nigeria, leading to improved synergy between the armed forces, security agencies, and intelligence agencies. This collaboration was said to be instrumental in achieving the ultimate goal of ensuring security and peace across the country. Hence, the North East region, which was once the epicenter of terrorism now experiences relative peace, thanks to the elimination of many Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, including their commanders.

    The ONSA’s efforts was quite successful in the past year and its impact was seen in the country’s improved security situation. As the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has been working tirelessly to ensure that all security agencies are working together seamlessly to address the country’s security challenges The National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC), which is under the ONSA, has also been playing a crucial role in coordinating national security efforts, including holding crime symposiums and collaborating with international partners to combat terrorism.

    According to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) over 10,937 terrorists, including one thousand of their commanders and leaders, were neutralized on the battlefield in 2024. It also disclosed that over 7,063 kidnap victims were rescued while 16,171 terrorists and their families surrendered.

    The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Edward Buba, disclosed that a total of 8,815 weapons, 228,004 ammunition were recovered from terrorists and other non-state actors in the past year.

    Feats in the North East

    According to data from the DHQ, in 2024 troops of Operations HADIN KAI, a joint military task force against Boko Haram and other terrorists groups in North East, killed over 3,151 terrorists, arrested 2,503 suspects and rescued 1,605 kidnapped hostages, while 16,171 Boko Haram/ ISWAP fighters and their families surrendered.

    Also, a large cache of arms and ammunition, comprising 3,002 arms and 71, 532 ammunition were seized during onslaughts against non-state actors in the Sambisa Forest, Timbuktu Triangle as well as the Tunbums along the Lake Chad Basin.

    Several terrorist leaders and commanders comprising Amir Garin Manzo, Hussaini Ardo, Abu Mhammed, Buba Kachalla Bukar, Abu Rijab, Ali Modu, Munzur Ya Audu, Abdullahi Maishayi, Abba Tukur, Abu Sule, Ari Gana, Mallam Mohamadu, Jibrila Ahmadu and Saidu Hassan Yellow were killed.

    Troops invaded terrorist hideouts, strongholds and enclaves to flush out terrorist and killed and recovered and destroyed 1,928 equipment belonging to terrorists.

    According to the military high command the e feats were achieved due to improved cooperation with the local and the government of the affected states in the region.

    Neutralizing bandits, Lakurawa terrorists in North West

    Zamfara State has a long and troubled history with banditry, dating back to the 1990s when cattle rustling and armed robbery were rampant, perpetrated by Fulani criminal gangs. However, the situation took a turn for the worse in the early 2000s with the emergence of militant groups such as the “Yan Tauri” and “Yan Banga,” who engaged in armed banditry, kidnapping, and communal conflicts.

    The surge in activities of Boko Haram and other terrorist groups between 2011 and 2013 in North East Nigeria led to an influx of fleeing terrorists who merged with local criminal groups, intensifying banditry and terrorism in Zamfara and escalation of the terrorism to other states like Kaduna, Kebbi and Niger State. The situation further deteriorated between 2014 and 2017 due to the proliferation of weapons, political instability, and ethnic conflicts, allowing bandits to operate with impunity.

    In response, the federal government launched a military operation in 2018, codenamed “Operation Sharan Daji,” aimed at combating banditry and terrorism. The operation was later renamed “Operation Hadarin Daji” to adapt to the evolving security threats. Despite these efforts, banditry remains a significant challenge in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kaduna, Kebbi and Niger State, with ongoing attacks, kidnappings, and displacement of communities.

    However, in the past year due to the renewed political will and commitment of the military and other security agencies,together with the rejigging of operation now known as Operations Fansan Yamma, replicating what was obtainable in the North East, the situation is being kept in check.

    In 2024, the military recorded significant successes against bandits, killing several of them, including their leaders. Troops activities instigated rival clashes among the terrorist groups leading to the death of several terrorist commanders in battle for supremacy of rival groups.

    Also, the synergy between the security agencies and intelligence agencies further resulted to the neutralisation of several terrorists kingpins including Sabubu, Isiya Boderi, Alhaji Mubale, Baban Yara, Alhaji Kabiru, Lawali Gudau AKA Damina, Buhari Alhaji Halidu AKA Buharin Yadi, Nagala Jabbi, Audu Kalwa, Muhammad Sani AKA Peter, Dan Hajiya, Ga’aye, Akwanga, Bala Gurgu, Yellow, Kucheri and Babban Mutum.

    Over all troops killed 2,906 terrorists, arrested 1,826 suspected bandits and rescued 2,616 kidnap victims, while 1,450 AK47 rifles, 477 fabricated guns, 576 arms, 31,999 rounds of 7.62mm special, 14,960 rounds of 7.62mm NATO and 6,564 assorted ammunitions were recovered.

    The military also dealt heavy blows on the new Lakurawa terrorist group in Sokoto and Kebbi State. In 2024 troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation FOREST SANITY III CHASE LAKURAWAS OUT killed several Lakurawa terrorists and destroyed 22 camps.

    The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.- Gen. Oluyinka Soyele , said troops were selected and trained for this mission, hence Nigerians are counting on their ability and professionalism to flush out the Lakurawas.

    The operation penetrated the terrorists’ forests and enclaves at Rumji Dutse East of Sarma, Tsauna and Bauni, Malgatawa, Gargao, Tsauna and Magara forests in Kebbi state. They also raided Kaideji, Nakuru, Sama, Sanyinna, Kadidda, Kolo and Dancha villages in Illela, Tangaza and Binji local government areas of Sokoto state.

    Aside from the killing of several of the sect, the operation led to the recovery of four rifles and 409 PKT 7.62mm NATO and 94 pieces of 7.62mm special rounds ammunition.

    The Chief of Army Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, said with joint operations with the armies of Nigeria’s neighbours, the Lakurawa terrorists will “soon be a thing of the past.”

    Trials of terrorism suspects

    The trials of terrorism suspects at the Wawa military cantonment in Kainji in Niger State got speedy disposition in the past year, as required by international laws. The director of public prosecution of the federation, Mohammed Babadoko, disclosed that the present administration disposed of more terrorism cases in 2024 since the trials began in 2017.

    Babadoko explained in 2024 the federal government disposed 490 cases out of 1,743 disposed of during seven years of terrorism trials in the country.  He said in the fifth phase of the trial in July 2024, a total of 253 cases were disposed of, out of which 125 were convicted, 85 were terrorism financing cases, and 22 involved International Criminal Court (ICC) criminalities.

    “That is to say, there were crimes against humanity, and 22 cases were adjourned for trial.

    “Now, at the sixth phase of the trial in December 2024, a total of 237 cases were disposed of, with about nine adjourned for continuation of trial.”

    According to him, out of the number 1,743 cases in six years, 742 were convicted, 888 acquitted, and 92 adjourned. Babadoko stated that this achievement was in collaboration with relevant stakeholders and sector actors to ensure accountability for crimes committed by individuals.

    Anti Kidnapping efforts

    The federal government anti-kidnaping led to the rescue of several kidnap victims. The operations, coordinated by the National Counter Terrorism Centre saw to handing over of many kidnap victims to their families by the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu. According to Ribadu, 80 percent of anti-kidnaping operations were successful.

    He said: “…This menace demands a robust, multi-agency approach, which the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell embodies.”

    “In less than two years, we have achieved 80 per cent success. But we don’t talk about it. We have soldiers and personnel of other security agencies who are in the bush, sacrificing their lives to make this country a better place, to rescue it and take it back on track so that we will have a normal life,” Ribadu said.

    To properly coordinate Anti-Kidnap efforts the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) established the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell (MAAKFC) at the National Counter-Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Abuja. NCTC National Coordinator, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said the Fusion established in collaboration with United Kingdom (UK), through the National Crime Agency (NCA),would serve as a “pivotal force in combating the menace of kidnapping by coordinating operational responses, analysing data to track trends, and building the capacity of security personnel”.

    A golden year for NAF, Army

    In the past year, the federal government handed over 15 aircrafts to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to enhance its counterterrorism and counter-insurgency operations. The NAF is also set to receive not less than 61 aircraft this year in a momentous build-up of the country’s aerial security capability.

    These supplies brought brand new aircraft acquired by the NAF in about three years to 64.

    Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar who disclosed this in December 2024, added that among the aircrafts received last year included two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, six T-129 helicopters, two AW-109 Trekker helicopters, and one KA 360i aircraft.

    He said: “Next year (2025), the NAF is also set to receive 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M-346FA aircraft, three CASA-295 aircraft and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.

    “That is not all. In addition to these new acquisitions, we have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA. While all 12 aircraft are ready for shipping, it is anticipated that six will be restored to operable status with the remaining six used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet.

    “It is, therefore, no exaggeration to state that the Nigerian Air Force is experiencing a golden era under the current administration.”

    Also, the Nigerian Army received it’s first The Nigerian Army (NA), operationalized its aviation wing with the delivery of two new helicopters. The operationalization of the aviation wing was parts of efforts to strengthen the ongoing fight against terrorism and other security threats.

    The then Chief of Army Staff, Late Lt.Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, expressed delight that the Nigerian Army Aviation conceptualised eleven years ago, has finally come to life with the delivery of the first two helicopters Bell UH1-H.

    The operationalization of the aviation wing was hailed by security experts, as the believed that it would go along way in enhancing counterterrorism battle. A Former Commander Infantry Corps of the Nigerian Army, Major Gen Victor Ezugwu (Rtd), had in 2024, said that the war against terrorism would end if the planned establishment of Army Aviation succeeded and night fighting capabilities of the Nigerian Army Infantry Corps were improved.

    The setbacks

    Despite the achievements and improvements in military operations against non-state actors, the military experienced some notable setbacks in 2024. These setbacks were in lost of personnel and equipment in combat operations. For instance,

    In March 2024, the Nigerian Army lost 17 soldiers, including the commanding officer, Lt. Col. A.H Ali, while on a peace mission in the Okuama community of Delta Safe. The soldiers were ambushed and murdered by the community. This followed a long-standing dispute between the Okuama and Okoloba Communities in Ughelli South and Bomadi local government areas of Delta.The development angered the military authorities which vowed that it would ensure justice for their personnel.

    Also in March 2024, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experienced the crash of its Super Mushshak trainer aircraft which was involved in a minor accident in Kaduna. However, there was no casualty in the crash.

    The Nigerian in October 2024 demobilized two Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAPs) vehicles stuck in muddy terrain in Zamfara State to prevent it being used by terrorists.

    In October 2024, in a proactive move to prevent the misuse of military equipment by terrorist groups, the Nigerian military demobilized two Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAPs) vehicles that had become stuck in muddy terrain in Zamfara State.

    NSA Ribadu, CDS Musa pledge more efforts to end terrorism, insecurity in 2025

    Meanwhile, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu has reassured Nigerians of the government’s renewed focus on combating terrorism, violent extremism and other security threats.

    He said the threats would be tackled through enhanced collaboration, innovative strategies, and proactive measures.

    The NSA, in a statement by the National Coordinator National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in the Office of the National Security Adviser, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Garba Laka, acknowledged the resilience of the citizens in the face of security challenges and emphasizes the critical role of our collective effort in ensuring peace and stability.

    Ribadu attributed the successes achieved in 2024 to the exceptional leadership of President Bola Tinubu, whose political will, he said, had extensively sustained security efforts across the country.

    He said the president’s “strategic guidance, exemplary leadership, and untiring support” to the Office of National Security Adviser provided the foundation for the progress made in enhancing national security.

    The NSA also acknowledged the efforts of the Armed Forces, security and intelligence agencies in combating insecurity in the country in the past year.

    “Your sacrifices in the front lines despite the harshest conditions, demonstrate staunch patriotism, courage, and dedication to safeguarding the Nation’s sovereignty and security,” he said

    Ribadu noted that the collective vigilance and cooperation of Nigerians have been instrumental in the fight against terrorism and other security threats, stressing that the successes recorded in the country’s efforts to enhancing national security were rooted deeply in the cooperation of the citizens and the military and security agencies.

    He said: “ The year 2024 brought its share of security challenges, including the resurgence of the Lakurawa Terrorist Group in the Northwest and acts of sabotage on critical national infrastructure, such as power transmission lines, by non-state actors. Despite these challenges, it is gratifying to note the tireless efforts of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and security agencies in containing these threats and preventing further occurrences.

    “These achievements would not have been possible without the invaluable support of the National Assembly, the judiciary, and state governors, whose commitment to strengthening our policy and legal frameworks across all levels of government have been critical in advancing our national security objectives. Your steadfast dedication and proactive engagement have also contributed immensely to effective decision-making and the successes recorded.”

    Ribadu commended  the exemplary leadership, foresight, and dedication of the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Inspector General of Police, Director General of the National Intelligence Agency, Director General of the Department of State Services, Chief of Defence Intelligence, and the heads of other security and intelligence agencies for their unparalleled contributions to safeguarding our dear Nation.

    He said: “The fight against terrorism and criminality cannot be won without the active participation of citizens. I therefore implore you to promptly report any suspicious activities, movements, or characters to the appropriate authorities. If you see something, say something.

    “Looking to 2025, Ribadu reassures Nigerians of the renewed focus on combating terrorism, violent extremism and other serious organised crimes through enhanced collaboration, innovative strategies, and proactive measures.”

    While highlighting recent advancements in the fight against insecurity to include the operationalization of the Multi-Agency Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell at the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the NSA urged all security stakeholders and citizens to redouble their efforts in building a safer and more secure country.

    Also the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, said 2025 would be a defining year for the military, as it would do everything possible to end terrorism and ensure peace across the country.

    The CDS who spoke during the decoration of the newly promoted Major Generals charged them to put on their thinking and came up with innovations that will end insecurity.

    He said:”We have been dealing with insurgencies, terrorism, banditry for 15, 16 years and still counting and I think it is high time that we dealt with it finally and I know we can do it. So I want to call on all of us to put on our thinking caps and make that great sacrifice that 2025 should be a determining year for the armed forces of Nigeria.”

    Police reads riot act to insurgents, criminals in 2025

    Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force NP has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing these threats and safeguarding the well-being of all Nigerians.

    The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, said in 2025, the Force will deal seriously with the issue of Lakurawa and ensure that no breakdown of law and order is experienced across the country.  

    Egbetokun has assured Nigerians of improved security in the year 2025. The IGP assured that the Police Force will implement aggressive, proactive, intelligence-driven and community-based crime fighting strategies in its quests to make the country safer.

    Egbetokun also promised Nigerians that the Force will take the battle to the doorsteps of the criminals and also expand its collaboration with the citizens and other Law Enforcement Agencies in its bid to flush out criminal elements in the country.

    He stressed that the Force will be unrelenting in the fight against all forms of crimes especially kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, cultism, cybercrime, Sexual/Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), amongst others in the country in the year 2025.

    Reflecting on 2024, Egbetokun at a meeting with top police officers in Abuja said it is clear that both the Nigeria Police Force and the country at large faced a range of security challenges, but also achieved notable successes.

    He said the Force dealt with a variety of internal threats, such as banditry, insurgency, kidnapping, and armed robbery, as well as external threats posed by groups like ISWAP and the Lakurawa terrorists, primarily in the North West region.

    Throughout 2024, the police made substantial strides in enhancing the safety and security of Nigerians.

    Police officers displayed remarkable dedication in combating criminal activities across urban and rural areas.

    Through revitalized crime prevention efforts, the force has made significant progress in reducing crime, ensuring public safety, and improving service delivery. These accomplishments reflect police firm commitment to holding perpetrators accountable for their crimes.

    The police efforts have been comprehensive, leveraging modern technology, intelligence gathering, and community policing. The strategies have not only increased the Force’s operational efficiency but have also fostered stronger collaborations with local communities, building trust between the police and the public.

    Egbetokun said: “While we acknowledge the complexity of the challenges we face, we remain steadfast in our resolve to continue addressing them head-on to secure the future of our nation.

    “Despite our best efforts to foster trust and confidence with the public, and our strong emphasis on discipline and professionalism, a small number of our officers have unfortunately continued to engage in behavior that damages our reputation. This has been a significant challenge for us in 2024.

    “In the year under review, the Nigeria Police Force achieved major successes in tackling crime, leading to the arrest of 30,313 suspects for a range of serious offenses, including kidnapping, cultism, murder, rape, armed robbery, and unlawful possession of firearms. In addition, we recovered 1,984 assorted firearms, 23,250 rounds of ammunition, 1,438 stolen vehicles, and rescued 1,581 kidnapped victims.

    “In the fight against kidnapping, we intensified our efforts and achieved substantial success. A prime example is the rescue of one Nigerian and three Indian nationals on June 30, 2024, in Ogun State. Despite being ambushed by gunfire, the victims were safely rescued, and two kidnappers were neutralized in a subsequent raid. We also recovered five AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and communication equipment. This operation demonstrates our capacity to combat kidnapping and criminal enterprises effectively.

    “In our fight against terrorism financing and money laundering, the Nigeria Police Force took bold steps, including the establishment of the Anti-Money Laundering Unit. On December 8, 2024, operatives in Kano State uncovered counterfeit currencies, and ATM cards, alongside a staggering N129 billion in various counterfeit currencies. This operation underscores our determination to combat financial crimes that fuel terrorism and organized criminal activity.

    “Our fight against economic sabotage yielded impressive results. The IGP Special Task Force on Petroleum and Illegal Bunkering intercepted significant quantities of crude oil, AGO, and PMS in July, recovering large amount of stolen petroleum products and arresting 17 suspects across multiple operations. Our efforts to tackle armed robbery and cultism also made headway. On May 20, 2024, a joint tactical team raided a cultist hideout in Edo State, seizing a large cache of weapons and ammunition. While some suspects fled, our pursuit remains active to apprehend those responsible.

    “In the fight against illicit firearms trafficking, the Nigeria Police Force achieved a significant breakthrough in February 2024 when operatives arrested nine individuals in Plateau State involved in the trans-border arms trade. We seized weapons, including AK-47 rifles and automatic pistols, along with over 1,800 rounds of live ammunition.

    “The National Cybercrime Centre (NPF-NCCC) made considerable strides in cybercrime enforcement. Detectives uncovered a major fraud operation, recovering N3.9 billion and arresting individuals linked to a multi-bank scam. In November, a coordinated raid led to the capture of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, involved in global cybercrime operations.

    “The Force Marine Unit has played an essential role in maintaining security across Nigeria’s inland waterways. With the introduction of 23 advanced gunboats, our maritime security capacity has been significantly enhanced, allowing us to better combat smuggling, piracy, and other crimes at sea. Throughout 2024, the Nigeria Police Force launched several key initiatives to strengthen our operational capacity, including the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), Safe School Protection Squad (SSPS), and the commissioning of the National Cyber-Crime Centre. We also prioritized professional development, holding workshops, commissioning new training facilities, and launching new security programs to enhance the skills of our officers”.

    In 2025, the IGP vowed to deal seriously with the issue of Lakurawa and ensure that no breakdown of law and order is experienced across the country.  

    The IGP called on all Nigerians to actively participate in building a secure and peaceful nation by partnering with the Police, remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities while maintaining open channels of communication with the Police and other law enforcement agencies.

    “As we usher in the New Year 2025, the Nigeria Police Force remains committed to protecting the lives and property of all citizens. Together, we can create a safer and more secure environment to promote growth in all sectors of our country”.

    Conclusion

    The 2025 security outlook for Nigeria is complex and dynamic, with various threats and challenges. While the government is expected to continue its efforts to address these threats, it is essential for citizens, civil society organizations, and the private sector to remain vigilant and proactive in supporting national security efforts. While there have been notable gains in the fight against Boko Haram, emerging threats in the North West and persistent challenges in the South East and North Central demand sustained attention and effort. The effectiveness of government strategies, regional cooperation, and economic development will be critical in shaping Nigeria’s security trajectory in 2025.

  • National security: Impact, prospects of IGP’s special intervention squad in renewed policing vision

    National security: Impact, prospects of IGP’s special intervention squad in renewed policing vision

    By Olumuyiwa Adejobi

    The trajectory of a nation’s development in all areas is linked and often directly proportional to the strength of its security architecture. Many scholars have viewed security not only as the absence of war but as the overall well-being of a nation’s citizenry. This broad perspective aligns with the principles and concept of the “New Security Agenda.” The components of this agenda include human security, environmental security, economic security, and political security — each interconnected and collectively contributing to a country’s overall resilience and stability.

    Globally, security is crucial to development. Nigeria has played a prominent role in global security matters, particularly in Africa, owing to its vast geographical size, large population, and abundant natural resources. Over time, however, Nigeria has faced significant security challenges, arising from various factors related to its human, material, and natural endowments. These challenges have kept the country’s institutions and departments on alert, constantly working to provide timely solutions.

    McNamara (1968) once said,

    “Security is not military hardware, though it may include it; security is not a military force, though it may involve it; security is not a traditional military activity, though it may encompass it. Security is development, and without development, there can be no security.”

    The role and mandate of a functional police institution, like the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), cannot be fully appreciated without the country experiencing rapid economic recovery, social integration, and overall development. The nexus between national development and a productive policing system is fundamental. This can be achieved through a police force that is professionally competent, service-driven, compliant with the rule of law, and people-friendly – principles enshrined in the IGP’s vision statement.

    This analogy accentuates the need to assess, review, and align with the New Security Agenda, which led the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, upon assuming office as the 22nd indigenous IGP, to create a special squad to augment the existing security structure of the Force. This initiative is geared towards combatting crimes such as kidnapping, banditry, and other criminal activities plaguing various regions in Nigeria. The Special Intervention Squad (SIS), a core component of the IGP’s administration, was first launched in Jos, Plateau State, on 29th December 2023. This followed the IGP’s on-site assessment of the devastation caused by armed bandits who attacked Mangu, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas on Christmas Eve, 24th December 2024. The attack resulted in the loss of over 200 lives and significant property destruction. The SIS’s activities in Plateau State have led to the arrest of suspects directly involved in the attack, who have since confessed to their crimes. The IGP also ordered the deployment of the supervisory Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 4 Headquarters (comprising Nasarawa, Plateau and Benue States) to Plateau State to oversee the Squad’s operations and to ensure the maximum use of available assets and resources to make the state uninhabitable for criminal elements and restore normalcy.

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     To actualize his vision, the mathematical IGP in his wisdom, launched the Special Intervention Squad for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on 17th January 2024, under the supervision of the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Operations, DIG Ede Ayuba Ekpeji. The Squad commenced immediate operations in the FCT and its environs. The IGP emphasized the need to control the influx of armed criminals into the FCT, particularly in bordering communities connecting states like Niger, Kaduna, Nasarawa, Benue, and Kogi. These criminals leverage the proximity of the FCT to these states to perpetrate their activities. However, with the intervention of the Squad, these threats are being actively tackled.

     The Intervention Team, commanded by CP Benneth Igweh, mni (as he then was), conducted operations in areas such as Kawu, Kuchikau, Bwari, Nigerian Law School, Veritas University, Claretian Missionary Seminary, Zuma I, Zuma II, and Iguh – known hotspots for terrorist and bandit activities. They also extended their operations to Tafa, Gauraka, and Garam in Niger State and boundary areas in Kaduna State.

     On 18th January 2024, at about 0010HRS, the squad while carrying out a covert operation, intercepted a grey Toyota Hilux van with registration number RBC90DC Abuja, carrying four passengers, including the driver. Upon sighting the police, one of the kidnappers opened fire in an attempt to escape, but the squad’s superior firepower led to the rescue of one Segun Akinyemi, who had been kidnapped in Abuja and was being taken to Kano. One Chinaza Philip from Life Camp, Abuja, was arrested, and the squad recovered two G17 model pistols, one Beretta pistol, ten 9mm P.A.K rounds of ammunition, and five 9mm special rounds. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing members of the gang, who escaped in a white Mercedes Benz.

     In collaboration with the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT), the FCT Command Anti-Violent Crimes Section, Anti-kidnapping Section, and neighbouring state commands, as well as the Nigerian Army, the SIS in a rigorous, well-calculated rescue operation successfully rescued victims of the 2nd January 2024 kidnapping in the Zuma 1 Area of Bwari Area Council. The victims were found in Kajuru Forest, Kaduna State, on 20th January 2024, at around 11:30 pm, and were reunited with their families.

     Additionally, the SIS has rescued four other kidnap victims within the FCT. Suleiman Sabo was rescued in Sauka along Airport Road, with the arrest of his kidnapper, Muhammed Abel, who was found in possession of one MK1 rifle and ten rounds of live ammunition. Two victims, abducted from the residence of Barr. Cyprian Adikwu at Army Post Service Housing Estate, Phase 2 Extension, Hilltop Kurudu on 18th January, 2024, and one Gideon Nanjul reportedly abducted on 19th January, 2024, were rescued on 20th January 2024, following tireless efforts by police operatives, vigilante groups, and hunters arounf Kurudu and Azhata Village. They have also been reunited with their families.

    On 20th January 2024, at about 2200hrs, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Tafa Division, Kaduna State, acting on credible intelligence, led a patrol team to Easy Way Hotel, where they arrested one Bello Muhammed, aged 28, from Zamfara State, in possession of a cash sum of N2,025,000 (Two Million, twenty-five Thousand Naira). Upon interrogation, he confessed to being a kidnapper, and a picture of him holding an AK-47 rifle in the bush was found on his phone.

    To eliminate any ambiguity, it is important to highlight that the Special Intervention Squad has been instrumental in various operations nationwide, including the neutralization of eight (8) Eastern Security Network (ESN) terrorists in Owerri, Imo State, on 1st August 2024, and the rescue of twenty (20) kidnapped individuals on 14th September 2024, and neutralized two armed robbers while recovering two AK47 rifles in Mangu LGA, Plateau State. The squad has significantly contributed to reducing crime across the country and has been involved in several joint operations in various states.

    The SIS has also played a pivotal role in ensuring election security in Edo State and in recovering arms and ammunition in the FCT, Niger, and Kaduna States, in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser. These remarkable feats highlight the Squad’s effectiveness and the indispensable nature of its operations.

    Nigeria’s embrace of the New Security Agenda is not just a choice as it is crucial for its stability, development, and the well-being of its citizens. The interconnected nature of security challenges demands an integrated, intelligence-driven approach, which the IGP is spearheading to reposition the NPF and restore its primacy in internal security. The fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility, and the establishment of the SIS marks a significant step toward achieving a safer, more prosperous Nigeria.

    The journey towards a more secure Nigeria calls for sustained efforts, collaboration among security operatives, and solidarity in combating crime. As Nigeria navigates complex global realities, our new security agenda must reflect a commitment to adaptability, collaboration, and foresight. The path ahead is challenging, but with determination and a united effort, Nigeria will overcome these challenges and secure a safer and more prosperous future for its citizens and the global community.

     Nigeria is embarking on a new security agenda that addresses these complex challenges, which require a drastic approach, such as the creation of the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) by the IGP. The primary duty of the SIS is to take the fight directly to the criminals, completely flushing them out of the FCT and its environs. Similar operations will be launched in other states across Nigeria. The fight against insecurity in Nigeria is our collective responsibility.

    •Adejobi, is a public relations practitioner, security expert and member Society for Peace Studies and Practice, wrote from Abuja.Email: princemoye@gmail.com

  • Cybercrime poses serious threat to national security – IGP

    Cybercrime poses serious threat to national security – IGP

    The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun on Wednesday said cybercrime poses significant threats to national security.

    Egbetokun said this while declaring open the maiden Nigerian Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF NCCC) 2024 Cybersecurity Week with the theme “Secure Our World”. 

    Represented by Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Bala Ciroma, the IG said cybercrime is not a mere technical issue but a matter of national security that requires immediate attention.

    He averred that cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated and employing advanced techniques to invade detection and target vulnerability in emerging technologies.

    According to him: “This gathering is a testament to our collective resolve and commitment to confronting cyber crime which has become one of the most significant challenges of our time. It also highlight our share determination to address this critical issue and work together toward a safer and more secured digital world. As we embrace the digital age, we must also confront the stake reality that cyber threats pose significant threats to our national security. 

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    “Cyber Criminals operate across borders, exploiting vulnerability in our systems and targeting individuals businesses and government institutions. These threats can disrupt critical infrastructure, compromise sensitive information and undermine the very fabric of our society”. 

    The Deputy Inspector General of Police, in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abiodun Alabi said that securing cyberspace is now inseparable from securing the physical world in era dominated by digital economy and technology.

    He said that crime fighting world over have shifted from reactive to proactive policing, preventing crimes before they occur, stating that cybercrime knows no borders and therefore, presents global challenge and demands international collaboration.

    “As a DIG FCID, I have witnessed the convergence of traditional and cybercrime. Crimes like fraud, espionage and terrorism now occur in cyberspace with criminal exploiting the internet anonymity to expand their reach globally,” he said. 

    The Nigerian Police Force National Cyber Crime Centre (NPF NCCC), he said, is at the forefront of combating cybercrime with experts skilled in digital forensics, data analysis and cybersecurity, adding that their groundbreaking works have dismantled major cybercrime networks both domestically and internationally, securing sectors like banking, telecommunications and critical national infrastructure. 

  • National security: retired retiring soldiers to become informants

    As parts of efforts to enhance national security, the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre (NAFRC) Oshodi on Thursday trained 256 soon to retire soldiers on community intelligence gathering.

    The two-day seminar, first in the military, is aimed at equipping participants of Course 01 2019 comprising 135 from the Nigerian Navy (NN) and 123 Nigerian AirForce  (NAF) billed for retirement in June, with knowledge and skills to gather useful intelligence in their communities which will be passed to security agencies for action.

    Declaring the training themed “community intelligence gathering: panacea for enhanced national security,” open, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Gabriel Olonisakin said it had elevated the status of NAFRC from an entrepreneurship and managerial skills acquisition centre to the pedestal of a research institution where academic discussions, workshops and researches aimed at proffering solutions to teething national security challenges take place.

    Olonisakin said while the retiring personnel are expected to retire into productive civilian life, they are nonetheless expected to still play important roles towards tackling security challenges bedevilling the country.

    “National security challenges require cooperation and synergy of all elements of national power as well as the citizenry to tackle. Our retired military personnel by their training, patriotic zeal and commitment could contribute to the attainment of the desired national security.

    “It is on this premise that I approved the conduct of this seminar for trainees of Course 1/2019. The seminar will expose our trainees to the best practices in national security. It will also refocus attention to the potentials of engaging military retirees as the eyes and ears of the fovernment in their various communities,” he said.

    Olonisakin said the seminar would sensitise participants on certain key indicators and occurrences within the communities they reside which could be detrimental to national security.

    “Therefore, as a patriotic citizen, the onus is on you to inform the authorities to enable them take appropriate action. It is believed that if this new approach in collaborative national security had been emplaced in the past, some of the teething national security challenges we are confronting today could have been nipped in the bud.

    “The theme of the seminar reflects the refocus on the engagement of retired military personnel for an enhanced national security. The attainment of the desired national security is a collaborative effort of the citizens and security agencies. This collaboration starts from the grassroots, neighbourhoods and communities.

    “The communities are at the base of our national security architecture. Security occurrences at the community level are invariably reflected at the national security level,” he said.

    The CDS who also inaugurated remodelled 16 blocks accommodation for officers and soldiers, praised NAFRC Commandant Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Abubakar-Sadick Liman and previous heads of the centres for always generating ideas to transform the institution into one of global reckoning.

    In his keynote address, the National Security Adviser (NSA) Babagana Mungonu said the trainees did not just put in long years of service but exhibited resilience, discipline and dedication to duty.

    He said there was need for credible intelligence gathering to fight crime, adding that crime and criminalities have the propensity of geometric progression, hence the need for retired personnel to volunteer intelligence.

    “Most sophisticated criminal rings, cartels or organized crimes including terrorism such as Boko Haram insurgency were bred and nurtured by the silence of people in the immediate society.

    “Considering that they cannot be everywhere at a time, security operatives in carrying out their onerous tasks, depend on members of the society for information. Upon reintegration into the society and normal civil life, you are in better position to gather, manage and transmit these information to the appropriate government agency. It is expected of you then as Ex Servicemen to be devoid of fear which usually discourages other informants from volunteering their information.

    “Upon retirement, the responsibility of national security still lies on you, but this time on a conscience-based dimension. Your relevance would thenceforth depend largely on your level of patriotism, good judgment and knowledge acquired.”

    The commandant said even at retirement, the personnel were expected to make useful contributions to improving security, adding that the training was to abreast them with basic knowledge on community intelligence gathering.

    He said seminar was borne out of the fact that the country was facing myriad of security challenges that require all hands to be on deck for peace and development to be achieved.

    “It could enhance our national security by augmenting

    the efforts of security agencies in detecting and informing the government of any development that could lead to a breach of

    peace and security in the nation. Such information would enable the Government to nip any ugly security situation in the bud. “This seminar is the first of its kind in the history of NAFRC. It is part of the on-going strategic transformation of the centre to reposition it as a worid class citadel of learning.

    The transformation process of the centre has witnessed tremendous renovation of infrastructural facilities, upgrade, modernisation and re-equipping of workshop equipment.

    “Other aspects of the transformation process include the envisaged change of name, mandate mission and curriculum of NAFRC. Towards this end, new workshops that are relevant to the aspirations of our retiring personnel have been introduced.”

     

  • Reporting national security not for ‘all comers’, Buratai warns

    CHIEF of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai yesterday emphasised that reporting of national security issues is not for “all comers”.

    He warned that anyone found wanting will be guilty of breaching the Official Secrets Act, 1962.

    The COAS spoke while inaugurating the Army 63 Division in Asaba, Delta State and kicking-off of Exercise Python Dance 111 (Egwe-Eke).

    Buratai appealed to Nigerians to be mindful of the fact that “this is the only country that we have and no effort should be spared to save it from plans of unpatriotic elements fighting to pull the country down”.

    The COAS warned that the unpatriotic elements’ activities were capable of impeding military operations and demoralising troops at the expense of national security.

    Buratai, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (G.O.C) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Maj.-Gen. Jamil Sarham, said at the end of Exercise Egwe-Eke111, “the python must have swallowed all bandits, rustlers, terrorists, kidnappers, robbers and militants in the country. The python will also have swallowed thugs and other miscreants that may raise their ugly heads”.

    He stressed that the Operation Python Dance 111 is a realistic training package in internal security operations, clearance operations, emergency management, rescue operations, roadblock and cordon and search and anti-kidnapping.

    According to the COAS, the inauguration of the 63 Division was a demonstration of President Muhammadu Buhari’s desire to have adequate and equitable establishment of Army formations and needs across the country.

    He said the establishment of three brigades under the 6 Division was informed by the need to have a formidable response mechanism and checkmate the myriad of security challenges to national assets, interest in the Niger Delta and the Gulf of Guinea.

    Buratai urged stakeholders “to look in the way of the brigade to fast-track its growth as the Federal Government makes budgetary provisions for the new Division”.

    He said Python Dance 111 was geared towards assuring law-abiding citizens of the Army’s resolve to provide adequate security and safety as the nation approaches the 2019 general elections.

    The COAS boasted that “Exercise Crocodile 111”, which was conducted in the Niger Delta region, has reduced illegal oil bunkering, pipeline vandalism, kidnapping and other criminal activities.

    He urged the troops to sustain the momentum of the operations and maintain professionalism in the discharge of their constitutional mandate in aid of civil authority.

    After the inauguration of the 63 Brigade at its temporary headquarters in Anwai, suburban Asaba, dignitaries, including Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, the leadership of the State House of Assembly, Asagba of Asaba Obi Prof. Chike Edozien, headed to its permanent headquarters for the flag-off of exercise Python Dance 111 at Kilometre 11, Okpanam on Asaba/Agbor expressway.

    Okowa promised to provide support to the military formation while hailing the security forces for securing the peace and territorial integrity of the nation.

    He said oil production boost in Delta State was largely due to the efforts of security agencies and enjoined them to sustain the momentum as the nation approaches general elections.

    Chief Patrick Ndeli, who represented Prof. Edozien, expressed appreciation to President Muhammadu Buhari for establishing the military formation in Asaba.