Historic Drop in Terrorism: West African Youth Congress Praises President Tinubu, NSA Ribadu, Chief of Defense Staff

By Tgnews

The West African Youth Congress (WAYC) has lauded the administration of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, and the Chief of Defense Staff General Chris Musa for their exceptional efforts in combating terrorism.

The organization attributes a historic decline in terrorist activities—the lowest in a decade—to the trio’s coordinated and determined leadership.

The commendation was detailed in a statement signed by WAYC Secretary-General and Head of Mission, Ambassador Mohammed Ahmed Marafa, PSLC, released on Thursday from the nation’s capital.

The WAYC praised President Tinubu for his steadfast commitment to addressing Nigeria’s long-standing security challenges, which have plagued the country with insurgencies, banditry, and extremist violence for years.

President Tinubu’s leadership has been instrumental in turning the tide against terrorism

Since assuming office, Tinubu has prioritized national security, a focus that the youth congress says has now borne fruit in the form of this unprecedented milestone.

“President Tinubu’s leadership has been instrumental in turning the tide against terrorism,” Marafa noted in the statement, emphasizing that the administration’s proactive policies have restored hope across the nation.

A key element of Tinubu’s strategy, according to the WAYC, was the appointment of Malam Nuhu Ribadu as National Security Adviser in June 2023.

Ribadu, a seasoned law enforcement expert and former chairman of Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has brought a wealth of experience and a methodical approach to the role. The WAYC described his appointment as “commendable” and a game-changer in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.

Under Ribadu’s stewardship, Nigeria’s security apparatus has undergone a significant transformation. The WAYC highlighted the “unprecedented synergy and intelligence-sharing capabilities” among the country’s security agencies, including the military, police, and intelligence services.

This collaboration has proven vital in dismantling terrorist networks that once operated with impunity across West Africa, particularly in Nigeria’s volatile northern regions.

Ribadu’s approach goes beyond reactive measures

Ribadu’s approach goes beyond reactive measures. Drawing on his extensive background, he has spearheaded a comprehensive framework that tackles both the immediate threats posed by groups like Boko Haram and bandit militias and the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment, and radicalization.

“His methodical leadership has revitalized counterterrorism operations,” the WAYC statement read, crediting Ribadu with laying the groundwork for sustainable peace.

Analysts have noted that Ribadu’s tenure has seen increased aerial bombardments of terrorist hideouts, joint operations between military and paramilitary forces, and community-driven intelligence initiatives.

These efforts have significantly weakened insurgent strongholds, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin and the northwest, contributing to the reported decline in attacks.

The WAYC reserved special recognition for the Chief of Defense Staff and the Nigerian Armed Forces, saluting their “patriotism, dedication, and commitment” to protecting the nation. The military’s role in executing Ribadu’s strategies and Tinubu’s directives has been critical, with troops engaging in high-risk operations to neutralize threats and secure vulnerable communities.

“Insecurity is the primary obstacle to development, and young people bear the brunt of its consequences,” Marafa stated, reflecting the organization’s youth-centric perspective.

“We recognize the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform, who risk their lives daily to defend our nation.” The WAYC emphasized that the military’s resolve has not only reduced terrorist incidents but also restored confidence among citizens, particularly the youth, who have long suffered from displacement, loss of livelihoods, and disrupted education due to insecurity.

We recognize the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform, who risk their lives daily to defend our nation

As a youth-based organization, the WAYC underscored the disproportionate impact of terrorism on younger generations across West Africa. The group views the decline in terrorist activities as a critical step toward unlocking the region’s potential for growth and development.

“This achievement is a victory for all West Africans, especially the youth who dream of a peaceful and prosperous future,” Marafa added.

The organization also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, and development throughout the region. WAYC, which represents young leaders and advocates across West Africa, pledged to work alongside governments, security forces, and civil society to sustain the gains made under Tinubu’s administration.

As we celebrate this milestone, we remain steadfast in our mission to foster a West Africa where peace and security reign

The WAYC’s statement comes at a time when Nigeria and its neighbors are grappling with multifaceted security challenges, including insurgencies, cross-border crime, and communal conflicts. The reported decline in terrorism offers a rare moment of optimism, with the youth congress urging all stakeholders to build on this progress.

Signed by Ambassador Mohammed Ahmed Marafa, PSLC, the WAYC’s commendation serves as both a celebration of current successes and a rallying cry for continued vigilance. “As we celebrate this milestone, we remain steadfast in our mission to foster a West Africa where peace and security reign,” the statement concluded.