National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has warned that the Nigerian government will not hesitate to confront anyone attempting to destabilise the country, stressing that protecting the nation’s democratic system is a top security priority.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday at a high-level dialogue on preventing violence and conflict in northern Nigeria, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser, Ribadu said Nigeria stands out as the sole functioning democracy in the entire Sahel region despite widespread insecurity and economic strain.

“This painful phase will pass”

Ribadu acknowledged the country’s current challenges but urged citizens not to lose hope.

“We are going through painful times, but this phase will pass. Nations across our region — from the Sahel to East Africa and South Asia — face similar or even more protracted challenges. Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel, and we must protect that achievement,” he said.

Warning to terrorists, saboteurs

The NSA vowed that anyone—individual or group—who spreads terror, exploits vulnerable communities, or undermines national unity will face a coordinated response from the state.

“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state remains fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens. Anyone who exploits communities, spreads terror, or attempts to undermine national unity will face decisive action, in line with our obligations to safeguard human rights and protect lives.”

Security begins at the community level

Ribadu stressed that many of Nigeria’s security challenges originate within local communities, noting that long-term peace requires strengthening grassroots institutions.

He said traditional rulers, religious leaders, local governments and state authorities all have critical roles in mediating disputes and preventing conflicts before they escalate.

“When communities are empowered to resolve their own disputes, the need for deployment of armed forces reduces significantly,” he added.

Backdrop of attempted coup and rising insecurity

Ribadu’s comments come on the heels of a reported attempted coup, which led to the arrest of several senior military officers.

President Bola Tinubu removed all Service Chiefs shortly afterward—a move described by the Presidency as part of a broader national security restructuring, though reports indicated the shake-up followed weeks of internal investigations and heightened suspicion of disloyalty within the military hierarchy.

The warning also comes as Nigeria battles worsening insecurity, a situation that recently contributed to the country being listed by the United States as a Country of Particular Concern.