The National Security Adviser to President Bola Tinubu, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for a strategic shift in Nigeria’s anti-corruption fight—from reactive enforcement to proactive prevention—emphasising the need for systemic and attitudinal change to effectively tackle the entrenched menace.
Ribadu made this call on Saturday while delivering the 9th Oba Sikiru Adetona Annual Professorial Lecture at Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State. The event was part of activities marking the 91st birthday celebration of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Delivering the lecture titled “Corruption and National Security: Impacts and Consequences,” through the Director General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, Ribadu described corruption as a major threat to national development and security, weakening institutions, diverting resources, and eroding public trust.
“We cannot discuss insecurity in Nigeria without recognising how corruption has compromised public trust and the effectiveness of law enforcement, even enabling impunity in some cases,” Ribadu said. He cited issues such as diverted military funds and flawed arms procurement processes as examples of how corruption undermines national security.
The former EFCC Chairman stressed that while punitive measures are necessary, emphasis must shift toward prevention. “We must build systems that make corruption difficult or impossible, not just punish it after the fact,” he said.
Ribadu noted that corruption is widespread—not only in government, but among individuals—and urged for a collective, societal resolve. “It is not just about those who take, but also those who give. Fighting corruption must be both institutional and attitudinal.”
He also gave updates on national security efforts, revealing that over 160,000 Boko Haram fighters have surrendered, more than 300 commanders have been neutralised, and 2,500 insurgents have been rehabilitated and reintegrated. He added that the Tinubu administration views security as a shared responsibility, working with local authorities, traditional institutions, civil society, and the private sector.
Paying tribute to Oba Adetona, Ribadu described him as a legendary and courageous leader, a staunch advocate for good governance, and a tireless supporter of education. “Kabiyesi remains a symbol of dignity, wisdom, and peace. His legacy will endure,” he said.
Other dignitaries at the event also celebrated the monarch. OOU Pro-Chancellor Prof. Oluwatoyin Ashiru called Oba Adetona the university’s greatest benefactor, citing his significant endowments, infrastructure contributions, and the establishment of the renowned Oba Sikiru Adetona School for Governance Studies.
Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deji Agboola praised the monarch’s leadership, philanthropy, and commitment to education, while Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Commissioner Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, lauded the Awujale’s moral integrity and visionary leadership.
Princess Adetoun Adetona-Daramola, Chairperson of the Professorial Chair in Governance and the monarch’s representative at the event, urged Nigerians to embrace truth and integrity for national progress.
Notable guests included Dr. Sunny Kuku, the Ogbeni Oja of Ijebuland and former OOU Governing Council Chairman; the Olota of Ota, Oba Prof. Abdulkabir Obalanlege; and the Ebumawe of Ago Iwoye, Oba Abdulrasaq Adenugba.