The Strategic Communications Interagency Advisory Policy Committee, under the coordination of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), has highlighted the remarkable achievements of its security and response agencies over the past year, attributing the success to interagency collaboration.
At a joint press conference held on Friday in Abuja, the Strategic Communications Interagency Advisory Policy Committee emphasized the critical role of synergy among various security agencies in enhancing national security and protecting citizens.
According to the statement, the Armed Forces of Nigeria has neutralized 9,303 terrorists and arrested 6,988 individuals, including logistics suppliers and informants. Over 4,641 hostages were rescued, and 9,562 Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters and their families surrendered. The Nigerian Navy’s anti-crude oil theft operations prevented thefts worth an estimated N91 billion and dismantled numerous illegal refining sites.
Similarly, the Department of State Services (DSS) and other intelligence agencies prevented numerous terrorist attacks and criminal activities through intelligence-led operations, apprehending high-profile terrorist commanders and seizing significant quantities of illegal arms and ammunition.
In the same vein, the Nigeria Police Force and other law enforcement agencies arrested thousands of suspects for various crimes, launched the Special Intervention Squad (SIS), and deployed helicopters for train escorts. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) foiled over 48 school attacks and dismantled illegal mining sites.
Likewise, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) secured 3,412 convictions and recovered vast sums of money in various currencies, while the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC) recovered over N66 billion in cash and restrained assets worth N5.88 billion.
More so, the Nigerian Custom Service generated exceptional revenue of about N4 trillion and implemented initiatives to enhance trade facilitation. The Nigerian Immigration Service improved border governance through the deployment of e-Gates solutions and enhanced patrol and surveillance.
Major General Edward Buba, speaking on behalf of the committee, emphasized the importance of interagency collaboration and called for continued support from all stakeholders. “Together, we can achieve even greater security and prosperity for our country,” he said.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to creating a safer nation, with a focus on strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms, investing in advanced technologies, deepening international partnerships, and ensuring a people-oriented approach to securing communities.
Abdulhamid Abdullahi Aliyu
