Military operations alone can’t end banditry — Ribadu

Nigeria's National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, has articulated a critical shift in the approach required to combat the escalating banditry crisis, moving beyond a sole reliance on military interventions. His remarks, delivered at a brainstorming session in Sokoto, underscore a recognition that the nature of banditry has fundamentally transformed. What once manifested as cattle rustling and highway robbery has now morphed into a more sophisticated threat, involving territorial control, the imposition of illegal taxes on rural communities, and significant disruption of economic activities. This evolution necessitates a more nuanced and comprehensive strategy that integrates various elements of national security and community engagement.

Nuhu Ribadu

Nuhu Ribadu, through his representative Zakari Mijinyawa, outlined a strategic framework that prioritizes intelligence-led operations, robust border management, and enhanced regional cooperation. He stressed the importance of cutting off the supply of illicit weapons and logistical support to armed groups, which are critical for sustaining their operations. Beyond kinetic actions, Ribadu also highlighted the necessity of addressing the underlying socioeconomic conditions that render young people susceptible to recruitment by criminal networks. This includes implementing lawful rehabilitation programs for those willing to disengage from violence, while firmly asserting that reintegration should never supersede justice or reward violent acts. His five priority areas for Sokoto—denying safe havens, strengthening intelligence, building community trust, protecting livelihoods, and preventing youth recruitment—provide a clear roadmap for a holistic security response.

Sokoto

The state of Sokoto faces a particularly acute challenge due to its geographical location. Its proximity to the Niger Republic and the broader Sahel region introduces a significant cross-border dimension to the banditry crisis, allowing armed groups to exploit porous borders and security gaps. This regional connectivity means that local solutions must be complemented by broader regional cooperation to be truly effective. The NSA specifically identified areas like Sabon Birni, Isa, Tangaza, and Goronyo as critical zones where early-warning systems need to be significantly strengthened. The goal is to ensure that reports of suspicious movements and emerging threats are promptly communicated to security agencies, enabling swift and decisive responses. The pervasive insecurity in Sokoto is not merely a security issue; it is profoundly disrupting farming, commerce, and children's education, leading to severe consequences for food production and the wider economy.

Muhammad Ahmad Wali

Professor Muhammad Ahmad Wali, Chairman of the Sokoto Advancement Forum, provided a stark assessment of the crisis's scale, revealing that security incidents have been recorded in 21 of Sokoto's 23 local government areas. He further disclosed that over 1,100 people were reportedly kidnapped in the state in the 12 months leading up to June 2026. This alarming data underscores the profound threat banditry poses not only to the lives and livelihoods of residents but also to the very authority of the government. Wali echoed Ribadu's call for a multi-pronged approach, advocating for stronger intelligence gathering, effective border control, swift justice, active community involvement, and the creation of economic opportunities for young people. The forum's initiative to compile measurable recommendations for government and security agencies reflects a concerted effort by civil society to contribute to a sustainable resolution.