Tinubu Sends Direct Message to Nigeria's Security Adviser Ribadu Amid Battle With El-Rufai
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu praised National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu for leading successful operations against banditry and terrorism
- The high-ranking federal government official was described by the president as honest, courageous, and committed to national security duties
- The Presidency reaffirmed confidence in Nigeria’s security leadership amid public disagreements with former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai
Adamawa state - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly commended Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, lauding his leadership and commitment in the country’s fight against banditry and terrorism.
The message, delivered amid Ribadu's ongoing public disagreement involving former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, underscored confidence in the nation’s security architecture and its chief coordinator.
Source: Facebook
Tinubu credits 'victories over bandits and terrorists'
In his remarks, President Tinubu credited recent security successes to the efforts of the National Security Adviser, describing Ribadu’s service in glowing terms.
“With you, we have defeated bandits and terrorists. You're a gold National Security Adviser. Honest, bold, courageous, and committed to the job. I believe the state of Adamawa is strongly proud of you because I am too.”
The President’s endorsement comes at a time of heightened public attention following criticisms and exchanges linked to El-Rufai, adding political weight to the statement and signalling firm backing for the NSA.
Observers said that the message reflected the Presidency’s intent to reassure Nigerians of continuity and resolve in national security management, Vanguard reported.
By openly reaffirming support for Ribadu, the President is reinforcing trust in the current security strategy while emphasising accountability and results in tackling insecurity across the country.
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El-Rufai accuses Ribadu's office of importing poison
In another report, El-Rufai disclosed on Sunday, February 15, 2026, that he had written to Ribadu seeking clarification on reports that the latter’s office allegedly imported thallium sulphate.
The former governor of Kaduna State made the allegation in a social media post seen by Legit.ng, describing the substance as 'very dangerous'.
A copy of El-Rufai’s letter, also sighted by Legit.ng, showed that it was delivered to Ribadu’s office on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
El-Rufai wrote on his verified social media page:
"As part of my duty as a citizen, I wrote to the NSA to seek clarification on reports about the importation by his office of thallium sulphate, a very dangerous toxin. It’s a matter of concern if anyone brings in any poison, more so an odourless, colourless one."
Source: Facebook
Atiku sends message to El-Rufai
Previously, Legit.ng also reported that former Vice President Atiku Abubakar had sent a message to the former Kaduna State governor, Nasir El-Rufai, for his birthday.
The message came the same day that the former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory had visited the headquarters of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
The development has continued to draw attention amid the former governor’s ongoing political and legal troubles, with Abubakar referencing this as 'political persecution'.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at Legit.ng.
Source: Legit.ng
