Nigeria's National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has disclosed that the country is receiving crucial international backing in its intensified battle against banditry and terrorism. The support is coming from major global powers including the United States, the United Kingdom, and France.
Global Alliance Against Two Decades of Terror
Ribadu made this significant revelation on Monday, December 1, 2025, during a visit to St. Mary Catholic School in Papairi, located within Niger State's Agwara Local Government Area. The school was the site of a devastating attack where 265 students and teachers were kidnapped by armed bandits.
Addressing concerned parents and community leaders, Ribadu offered reassurance. "You are not alone, I can assure you, we are together in this," he stated. He emphasized that the abducted children are safe and will return home soon, noting that efforts to secure their release have been ramped up.
The NSA detailed the international coalition forming to assist Nigeria. "Many good people from all over the world are coming to support us, including the United States of America. We appreciate everyone, especially the European countries like France, the United Kingdom, and a couple of others," Ribadu said. He framed the struggle as a global fight, declaring, "The whole world is coming together to stop and defeat this evil, which has been going on in Nigeria for two decades."
Tinubu's Directive and National Unity
Ribadu clarified that his visit to the traumatized community was conducted on the direct orders of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This move underscores the President's personal commitment to resolving the nation's security challenges. The NSA conveyed Tinubu's dedication to ending the scourge of terrorism and banditry plaguing various regions.
Beyond international aid, Ribadu stressed the imperative for domestic solidarity. He called on all Nigerians to unite against the common enemies of peace and security. His message was clear: defeating the menace requires a collective national effort alongside foreign partnerships.
This engagement in Niger State followed a strategic meeting Ribadu held with leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), as well as parents and staff of the abducted students. In those discussions, he provided fresh updates and reiterated the government's assurance regarding the wellbeing of the captives.
Escalating Security Challenges Across States
The situation in Niger State is part of a wider pattern of violence. In a separate but related incident, a fierce gun battle erupted between security forces and armed bandits on the Oshokoshoko-Obajana highway in Kogi State on the same Monday. The exchange left many travelers stranded for hours, with vehicles gridlocked in long queues.
Kogi State has witnessed a spike in kidnapping and bandit attacks in recent days. One of the most alarming incidents was an attack on a church during Sunday service, highlighting the brazen nature of the criminal groups. These events collectively paint a picture of a multifaceted security crisis affecting multiple regions simultaneously.
The federal government, through Ribadu's statements, aims to project a posture of control and proactive international collaboration. The naming of specific allied countries—the US, UK, and France—is a strategic communication effort to bolster public confidence and demonstrate that Nigeria is not fighting this battle in isolation.
