The National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has reportedly departed Nigeria for the United States, a development that has drawn criticism in some quarters amid the country’s worsening security situation.
Many Nigerians have reportedly questioned the timing of the trip, with critics suggesting that President Bola Tinubu may be prioritizing personal relationships over urgent national security concerns. They argue that Ribadu’s absence reflects what they describe as nonchalance and an inability to adequately respond to rising insecurity across the nation.
Commentators have also reportedly raised concerns about the structure of the national security hierarchy, noting that senior military generals take directives from a retired police officer serving as the National Security Adviser. According to these critics, Nigeria has veteran intelligence professionals retired from the Defence Intelligence Agency, the State Security Service and the National Intelligence Agency who they believe possess the expertise needed for the role. They also note that several retired service chiefs with operational experience remain available but have not been consulted.
Reports further indicate that other key defence officials are also outside the country at a time of heightened insecurity. The Minister of Defence Mohammed Abubakar Badaru is reportedly in Dubai for an airshow, while the Chief of Defence Staff General C G Musa is also said to be abroad on official engagements.
For many Nigerians, the simultaneous absence of the nation’s top security officials has reportedly raised serious questions about coordination, preparedness and the government’s commitment to addressing the country’s rising security challenges.
