The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has identified hunger and poverty as key drivers of insecurity across Nigeria, calling for urgent and coordinated efforts to address the root causes of violence and instability.
Speaking on Monday at a national security seminar in Abuja, themed “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria”, Ribadu stressed that tackling economic deprivation is essential for lasting peace. He was represented by the Director of Defence Affairs at the Office of the NSA, Major General Peter Mala.
“Hunger and poverty are not merely social concerns; they are catalysts for insecurity, crime, violence, and social disintegration,” Ribadu said. “These issues form a vicious cycle — poverty leads to insecurity, and insecurity, in turn, deepens poverty.”
The NSA said the Tinubu administration is addressing the challenge through a mix of agricultural reforms, social investment programmes, and security interventions. He highlighted ongoing efforts to improve food security, enhance law enforcement, and develop infrastructure to support agricultural production and distribution.
The event was organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College.
