…As UK commits to supporting Nigeria tackle internal, regional security threats

National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has said that combating terrorism, violent extremism, cybercrime, organised criminal networks, illicit financial flows, foreign information manipulation and interference, and the growing sophistication of transnational criminal organisations require cooperation from trusted partners.

Ribadu maintained that no nation can address those threats alone as effective responses require coordinated action across defence, intelligence, law enforcement, diplomacy, cyber capabilities, and financial tools.

Speaking during the 4th “Uk-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership” (SDP4) dialogue on Tuesday, the NSA noted that terrorist and criminal networks operating within the Nigeria’s borders have been significantly degraded, but the country is mindful that “these threats are dynamic, adaptive, and increasingly technology-driven.

“Nigeria remains firmly committed to confronting these challenges through a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach.”

The first Uk-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership (SDP4) dialogue was held in London in 2022.

Ribadu said the interconnected nature of those challenges meant that regional insecurity increasingly carries global implications, pledging Nigeria continued leadership role in security in Africa, and working with partners to strengthen regional stability, promote democratic governance, and build collective resilience against shared threats.

“We therefore welcome continued international coordination and partnership in addressing these challenges.

“Counterterrorism remains a central pillar of our partnership. Nigeria appreciates the support provided by the United Kingdom in strengthening our crisis response capabilities, disrupting terrorist financing networks, enhancing investigations, and supporting strategic communications.

“We are particularly encouraged by ongoing cooperation aimed at strengthening the National Counter Terrorism Centre and advancing sustainable counterterrorism measures.”

He added: “Our defence cooperation has also continued to expand through capacity-building initiatives, operational support, doctrine development, special operations capabilities, maritime security cooperation, and strategic communications. We welcome continued collaboration aimed at enhancing the professionalism, effectiveness, and interoperability of our security institutions.”

According to the NSA, the evolving security situation in West Africa and the wider Sahel region continues to demand our close attention. Violent extremism, unconstitutional changes of government, transnational organised crime, arms trafficking, and humanitarian pressures pose serious threats to regional stability.

In his comments, the United Kingdom’s National Security Adviser, Mr Jonathan Powell, reiterated his country’s  commitment to supporting Nigeria in tackling security challenges, saying “We have immense respect for Nigeria’s leadership role within the country, across the region, and throughout Africa.”

Powell said, “We recognise the significant security challenges Nigeria faces, particularly in combating terrorism, disrupting illicit financial networks, protecting civilians and strengthening national resilience. These are challenges we all face, but they are especially acute in this region.”

He disclosed that currently, the UK has military personnel in Maiduguri supporting Nigerian forces in their efforts to confront terrorism and insecurity.