Former Kogi governor praises intelligence-led operations after meeting NSA Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja, citing recent schoolchildren rescue efforts as evidence of improved coordination

Former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello on Friday praised President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu in Abuja for what he described as notable security progress, citing recent operations to foil the attempted abduction of schoolchildren in Kogi and rescue pupils abducted in Oyo State.

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Bello made the remarks after meeting Ribadu at the Office of the National Security Adviser, where he commended the Federal Government’s intelligence-led approach and the growing coordination among Nigeria’s security and intelligence agencies.

The former governor said the foiled abduction attempt in Kogi demonstrated the level of security support the state continues to receive from the Federal Government, while also highlighting the role of intelligence gathering and inter-agency cooperation in preventing criminal attacks.

“I want to use this opportunity to commend Mr President and our leader, President Bola Tinubu, for his relentless efforts in tackling insecurity across the nation,” Bello said.

Bello also praised Ribadu for what he described as strategic leadership in strengthening collaboration between security and intelligence agencies, arguing that the improved synergy had enhanced the country’s ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats.

He said the recent security successes showed that sustained investment in intelligence-driven operations was beginning to deliver positive results.

“I attribute the successful operation to the vigilance, professionalism and improved coordination among the nation’s security agencies, which is clear evidence that intelligence-driven security operations are yielding positive results,” Bello said.

The former governor further commended the administration over the rescue of abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State, describing the operation as a significant demonstration of its determination to protect lives and property.

Bello also paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives during operations, saying their sacrifice reflected the courage and commitment of officers working to protect the country.

“Mr President also deserves commendation for the recent rescue of the abducted schoolchildren in Oyo State. I equally commend you, my brother, the National Security Adviser, and, of course, the security agencies for your painstaking efforts, professionalism and determination in securing the safe release of the victims,” he said.

The comments come amid heightened national concern over kidnapping and attacks on schools, with security agencies facing continued pressure to protect vulnerable communities and prevent criminal groups from exploiting isolated areas.

Recent operations in different parts of the country have also renewed attention on the importance of intelligence sharing and rapid security responses in tackling abductions before victims are taken deep into difficult terrain.

Responding to Bello’s visit, Ribadu said the fight against insecurity could not be left to security agencies alone and required the collective commitment of Nigerians.

“The issue of insecurity concerns everyone in this country, and I believe that if we all play our part at our various levels, we shall overcome insecurity in Nigeria,” Ribadu said.

Bello subsequently urged citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely, credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations.

The former governor expressed confidence that the Tinubu administration’s security reforms, combined with closer cooperation among the various agencies, would strengthen the country’s response to criminality and contribute to lasting peace, stability and national development.

While the Federal Government continues to point to recent rescue and prevention operations as signs of progress, the broader security challenge remains significant, with kidnapping and other violent crimes still affecting communities across several regions.

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For Bello, however, the emerging picture represents an encouraging shift towards a more intelligence-driven security strategy, one that he believes can deliver a more secure future if government agencies and citizens sustain their cooperation.