In a joint press conference held under the auspices of the Strategic Communications Interagency Advisory Policy Committee, coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), key security, defense, and response agencies in Nigeria highlighted their achievements over the past year and announced new policy initiatives aimed at enhancing national security.
Major General Edward Buba, representing the committee, emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration in achieving these successes. “The robust interagency collaboration has ensured that our security operations are comprehensive, strategic, and effective,” he stated.
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) coordinated national security strategies and ensured synergy among various security agencies. During the period under review, ONSA successfully hosted the High-Level Africa Counter-Terrorism Meeting, which brought together African Heads of Government, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and leaders from global bodies to address stability in the Sahel Region and commit to combating terrorism. Additionally, ONSA facilitated the UK-Nigeria security and defense dialogue and initiated economic security measures in collaboration with the Central Bank of Nigeria to tackle currency manipulation and speculators.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reported significant progress in counter-terrorism operations. From May 23 to June 24, 2024, 9,303 terrorists were neutralized, 6,988 arrested, and 4,641 hostages rescued. Moreover, 9,562 Boko Haram/ISWAP combatants and their families surrendered to security forces. Anti-oil theft efforts led to the apprehension of 1,437 perpetrators, and significant improvements were noted in preventing crude oil theft.
In maritime security, increased patrols and international collaborations led to fewer piracy incidents in the Gulf of Guinea. Prevention of oil theft amounted to an estimated N91.2 billion, with substantial recoveries of illegally refined petroleum products.
Intelligence agencies played a critical role in preventing numerous terrorist attacks and criminal activities through intelligence-led operations. Significant seizures included illegal firearms and dangerous substances. Collaborations with foreign services enhanced regional and international security through partnerships with organizations like ECOWAS and CISSA.
The Nigeria Police Force undertook significant reforms and operations to enhance public safety, resulting in notable arrests and prosecutions in armed robbery, kidnapping, and other crimes. Digital innovations like the re-launch of the Rescue Me App contributed to significant operational successes.
The Nigeria Customs Service generated exceptional revenue of about N4 trillion through advanced trade facilitation initiatives and technological advancements. Their efforts also included significant seizures of contraband goods, illegal arms, and narcotics.
The Nigeria Immigration Service implemented the e-Border Project, deploying e-Gates and operational vehicles to improve border governance and surveillance. Automation of passport processing significantly improved service delivery and public sensitization efforts.
Emergency response agencies like the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and the Federal Road Safety Corp provided extensive support to disaster-affected regions and achieved notable reductions in road traffic crashes. NEMA distributed food and relief items, while the Federal Road Safety Corp introduced new laws and improved road safety infrastructure.
Looking ahead, security agencies will focus on strengthening intelligence-sharing, adopting advanced technologies, deepening international partnerships, and ensuring a people-oriented approach to national security. Major General Edward Buba called on all citizens and stakeholders to support these efforts, emphasizing that “together, we can achieve even greater security and prosperity for our country.”
This briefing underscores the concerted efforts and significant strides made by Nigeria’s security and response agencies in safeguarding the nation and its citizens.