The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, have assured that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the President Bola Tinubu administration will continue to prioritise the fight against poverty and hunger among Nigerians.

Speaking at the 14th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of National Defence College in Abuja, tagged “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” the NSA highlighted hunger and poverty as the catalysts fueling insecurity and violence.

Officially represented by Major General P. P. Mala, Director, Defence Affairs, Ribadu hinted that the commissioning of 2,000 tractors for nationwide deployment under the Renewed Hope Agricultural Mechanisation Programme will go a long way in helping to boost food production in the country.

“Hunger and poverty are not merely social concerns; they are catalysts for insecurity, crime, violence, and social disintegration. These issues form a vicious cycle. Poverty leads to insecurity, and insecurity, in turn, deepens poverty.

“Under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Government has prioritised agricultural reforms, social investment programmes, and security sector interventions aimed at breaking this cycle,” he said.

On his part, CDS Musa, who was also represented by the Chief of Defence Training, Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shetimma, opined that hunger and poverty have become national security threats.

“Insecurity today is not only defined by weapons but also by economic deprivation, food insecurity, and social dislocation. Hunger and poverty are no longer mere social challenges; they have become national security threats.

“The North-Central region, particularly Benue State, once considered Nigeria’s food basket, is a clear example of how banditry, displacement and farmer-herder conflicts have devastated agricultural productivity,’’ the CDS said.