Nigeria strengthens security with early-warning systems, national database — Minister

The Federal Government says it has intensified efforts to safeguard lives and strengthen justice systems across Nigeria, with initiatives aimed at improving security, accountability, and civilian protection.

Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, disclosed this on Thursday during the inauguration of the U.S.–Nigeria Joint Working Group, hosted by the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on Thursday in Abuja.

Idris highlighted the measures the government is implementing to protect citizens and address violence.

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“Our focus is clear: to ensure that security agencies are equipped to protect communities, respond swiftly to threats, and uphold justice,” he said.

He added, “The Federal Government is enhancing early-warning systems and developing a national database to provide accurate, verified data on deaths and casualties linked to violence. This will create a single trusted source of information to guide decisions, improve accountability, and strengthen our security response.”

Justice remains central to these efforts. The Ministry of Justice, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force are actively investigating and prosecuting terrorism cases.

“Violence will be met not only with force but also with justice and accountability,” Idris said.

The Minister noted that these reforms are carried out in collaboration with international partners, including the United States, through the Nigeria–U.S. Joint Working Group, which recently held a plenary session on Nigeria’s Country of Particular Concern (CPC) designation.

He said the partnership has delivered results. Nigerian security agencies are working closely with U.S. counterparts on intelligence sharing and coordinated operations, including Operation Hadin Kai in the North East and Operation Fasan Yamma.

The U.S. has also committed to delivering military equipment, including drones, helicopters, platforms, spare parts, and other support systems, as well as surplus defence assets.

On domestic initiatives, Idris said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu formally declared national security emergencies in vulnerable areas, authorised intensified joint operations, and directed the sustained deployment of security forces to priority communities.

He encouraged Nigerians to remain patient as these reforms continue. “Our duty is to keep citizens informed and reassured. The work being done today is paving the way for a safer Nigeria tomorrow,” he said.

Nuhu Ribadu, National Security Adviser, said Nigeria–U.S. security cooperation has produced operational gains, including improved intelligence sharing, coordination with U.S. AFRICOM, and strengthened counterterrorism operations.

These efforts have led to the neutralisation of terrorists, disruption of logistics networks, and interception of key facilitators.

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Ribadu emphasised that all cooperation respects Nigeria’s sovereignty and prioritises civilian protection, accountability, and joint operational planning.

He added that Nigeria’s security strategy includes early-warning mechanisms, rapid-response teams, and a national database to support evidence-based decision-making.

He further noted that investigations and prosecutions of attacks on religious communities have intensified.

“Nigeria is a plural society. Protecting all citizens Christians, Muslims, and those of other faiths is non-negotiable,” Ribadu said, affirming the government’s commitment to justice and security for all.