National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday warned that Nigeria must protect its democratic system, noting that it remains the only functioning democracy in the Sahel region, where political instability and military takeovers have become widespread.

Ribadu spoke in Abuja at a forum on preventing violence and conflict in northern Nigeria, organised by the National Peace Committee, The Kukah Centre, and the Office of the National Security Adviser.

His remarks come against the backdrop of military coups across West Africa and the Sahel, where countries such as Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, and Chad have experienced military takeovers or prolonged transitional governments.

Ribadu said Nigeria, despite persistent security and economic challenges, remains the only country in the belt still operating a constitutional, civilian-led government.

“We are going through painful times, but this phase will pass. Nations across our region — from the Sahel to East Africa and South Asia — face similar or even more protracted challenges. Nigeria remains the only functioning democracy in the entire Sahel, and we must protect that achievement,” he said.

He warned that individuals or groups seeking to exploit communities, spread terror, or undermine national security would face decisive action.

“Let me be clear: the Nigerian state remains fully committed to law, order, and the protection of citizens. Anyone — individual or group — who exploits communities, spreads terror or attempts to undermine national unity will face coordinated and decisive action, in line with our obligations to protect human rights and safeguard lives.”

Ribadu noted that the country has recorded 775 terrorism-related convictions, which he said signified progress made through cooperation among security agencies, communities, and the judiciary.

He, however, stressed that these gains would be threatened if violence and division continued unchecked.

The NSA also said sustainable peace would only be achieved when dialogues translate into concrete actions that strengthen resilience, rebuild trust, and improve security across northern Nigeria.

He noted that many national security challenges begin at the local level and emphasised the roles of communities, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and state governments in preventing conflict.

“Communities, religious leaders, traditional rulers, local government authorities, and state governments have critical roles to play. When communities are empowered to resolve their own disputes and prevent violence, the need for deployment of armed forces reduces significantly,” he said.

Earlier, the Convener of the National Peace Committee, Bishop Matthew Kukah, said insecurity had touched every Nigerian either directly or indirectly.

Kukah dismissed the idea of communities resorting to arms for self-defence, saying weapons offer only a false sense of security.

Instead, he urged moral leadership, civic responsibility, and inclusion — especially of women and young people — in national peace efforts.

“There is a growing belief that communities can defend themselves by arming up. But arms will not solve our problems. They offer a false sense of security. And when peace returns, where will those weapons go? As a Christian, it is not accidental that Jesus asked Peter to put back his sword.

“God’s teachings do not change; circumstances may change, but the truth does not. Civil society must mobilise voices and conscience. Their work is not just advocacy — it is a vocation. Women and young people must move from the margins to the centre,” he said. (The PUNCH)