Nigeria sets up committee to update national security strategy

The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has launched a committee to review Nigeria’s National Security Strategy (NSS) from 2019. This committee will create a new plan to tackle new security challenges like terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, misinformation, and cybercrime.

The committee has 33 members. It is headed by Sarkin Bello, a retired major general. Emeka Onumajuru, also a retired major general, is the deputy chair.

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, started the committee on Thursday, October 29. The committee must present its final draft of the NSS 2026 to the NSA by November 27.

Ribadu, who spoke through the committee chair, said the review is important because Nigeria's security situation has changed a lot since 2019. He mentioned that the new strategy will help coordinate national security, build resilience, and support sustainable development.

The NSA noted that the strategy should reflect what is happening now, prepare for future challenges, and back the government’s goals under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. This includes important areas like human security, economic growth, and national unity.

"Nigeria needs a strategy that is realistic and can be carried out," he stated. He urged committee members to work with resource institutions and relevant groups to create a clear and actionable document.

Mr Onumajuru pointed out that Nigeria's changing security environment calls for a deep look at its strategic priorities. He explained that traditional security threats like terrorism, insurgency, and banditry are now mixed with new challenges like cyber threats, economic problems, food shortages, and climate change.

"The National Security Strategy 2026 must be an inclusive, forward-looking, and actionable plan," he added. Mr Onumajuru explained that the committee will consult with its secretariat and engage leaders from the private sector and traditional rulers to create a solid strategy.

He mentioned that the committee includes members from the armed forces, intelligence agencies, government ministries, civil society, and academia. This wide representation will help ensure a full government and societal approach to national security.

He urged members to start work right away. He emphasized the need for careful analysis, professional integrity, and constructive discussion to meet the deadline for submission.

"Together, we will create a strategy that protects the sovereignty, unity, and future success of Nigeria," he said.