Nigeria Must Protect Its Democracy Amid Regional Coups, NSA Warns
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has cautioned that Nigeria must vigilantly protect its democratic system, emphasizing that it remains the only fully functioning democracy in the Sahel region.
Ribadu made the remarks on Thursday at a forum in Abuja focused on preventing violence and conflict in northern Nigeria. The event was organised by the National Peace Committee, the Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser. Highlighting recent military takeovers in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad, he stressed Nigeria’s role as the last stronghold of constitutional governance in the region.
“We are experiencing challenging times, but this period will pass,” Ribadu said. “Across the Sahel, East Africa, and South Asia, nations face similar or even longer-lasting crises. Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel, and we must defend this achievement.”
The NSA also assured that the Nigerian government would take strict measures against those threatening peace and unity.
“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state is fully committed to law, order, and citizen protection,” Ribadu added. “Individuals or groups who incite terror, exploit communities, or attempt to divide the nation will face decisive and coordinated action, while respecting human rights and safeguarding lives.”
He highlighted progress in counter-terrorism, revealing that Nigeria had secured 775 terrorism-related convictions through collaboration among security agencies, communities, and the judiciary.
Ribadu stressed that many security issues start at the community level, urging stronger involvement of religious leaders, traditional rulers, and local governments in peacebuilding initiatives.
“When communities are empowered to settle disputes and prevent conflicts, the need for armed intervention is significantly reduced,” he noted.
He called for dialogue to be translated into tangible actions that rebuild trust and strengthen resilience across northern Nigeria.
The warning comes as Guinea-Bissau joins a growing list of African countries, including Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, that have experienced military takeovers in recent years.
