Nigeria Vows to Defeat Terrorism as Leaders Warn Against Arming Communities

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to defeating terrorism and banditry, with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu insisting criminal groups will not destabilise the nation. Speaking at a national dialogue in Abuja, Ribadu urged citizens to cooperate with authorities, saying military action alone is not enough to end insecurity. He highlighted recent progress, including 775 terrorism-related convictions, describing each as “a life restored and a community stabilised.”

Ribadu emphasised that lasting peace requires turning dialogue into measurable actions that rebuild trust and resilience in northern communities. He paid tribute to security personnel for their daily sacrifices and called on religious and traditional leaders to support peace efforts.

Meanwhile, Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah, warned that arming communities provides only a false sense of security. Speaking at the same event, he questioned the fate of weapons once peace returns and urged Nigerians to unite against insecurity. He also called for greater inclusion of women in peace and security decisions, stressing that peace begins at the individual and community level and requires collective action, humility, and courage from leaders.