Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has warned that hunger and poverty are making the country more dangerous. He spoke during a National Security Seminar held in Abuja on Monday, June 23.
Ribadu, who was represented by Major General Peter Mala from the Office of the NSA, explained that these issues are not just about the economy anymore—they are making the country less safe.
” 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.”
To stop this growing problem, Ribadu said President Tinubu’s government is taking steps to fix it. These include changes to agriculture, investment in social welfare, and boosting the strength of the security system to end the root causes of insecurity.
“Despite the progress made, issues like unemployment, hunger, and youth disenfranchisement remain persistent and require deeper, long-term solutions,”.
He added that his office is working closely with the military, intelligence agencies, police, and even community groups to fight insecurity in different ways—not just with force but also with long-term planning.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, also spoke at the event. He said hunger and poverty have now become full-blown security threats, not just social issues. Rear Admiral Ibrahim Shetimma spoke on his behalf.
The CDS, represented by the Chief of Defence Training, Rear Adm, Ibrahim Shetimma, said
“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.’’
General Musa explained that people are being pushed off their farms by criminals, which leads to rising food prices, people being forced to leave their homes, and problems for the country’s unity and economy.
He also encouraged local communities to take action. He said people should help security agencies by reporting suspicious activities, sharing useful information, and staying alert to prevent criminals from taking over their areas.
