By Aluta News
Jan. 7, 2024
Ribadu made the call at the opening of the UK-Nigeria Security Defence Partnership Dialogue, organised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) on Wednesday in Abuja.
Ribadu said this would promote inclusive economic growth and empowers marginalised communities in Nigeria.
He said that such comprehensive approach would help to build societies resilient to exploitation and radicalisation and address the security challenges facing the nation.
Ribadu stressed the need to adopt a holistic and forward-looking approach that leverages the full spectrum of capabilities and expertise in addressing the myriads of security challenges confronting Nigeria.
According to him, it is necessary to reflect critically on the evolving nature of contemporary security threats and identify innovative strategies and partnerships to effectively address them.
He said the UK-Nigeria Security Defence Partnership Dialogue marked another significant milestone in the enduring partnership between the two nations, united in their unwavering commitment to regional, continental and global security, stability and peace.
The NSA said the long standing ties between the two countries are grounded in their shared values, mutual respect, and common aspiration for a safer and more prosperous world.
He said the dialogue would serve as a pivotal platform for frank and constructive discussions on a wide array of contemporary security challenges confronting the two nations and the international community at large.
“Our dialogue must be guided by a shared commitment to promoting regional stability, countering violent extremism, and enhancing resilience against emerging non-traditional security challenges confronting our nations is both diverse and formidable.
“In response, it is imperative that we adopt a holistic and forward-looking approach that leverages the full spectrum of our respective capabilities and expertise.
“Moreover, the nexus between security and development remains intrinsic to our collective efforts to foster sustainable peace and prosperity.
“It is imperative that we adopt a comprehensive and integrated approach that addresses the root causes of insecurity, promotes inclusive economic growth, and empowers marginalized communities to build societies resilient to exploitation and radicalisation,” he said.
Ribadu said the importance of robust multilateral cooperation and information sharing could not be overstated in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.
He added that forums such as this would provide opportunity to reaffirm their collective resolve to confront emerging threats, adapt to evolving security dynamics, and uphold the principles of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law.
Ribadu said that several commitments were made during the first dialogue in 2022.
These, he said, centered on strengthening collaboration in the areas of defence, countering terrorism, violent extremism, organised crime, illicit financial flows and enhancing maritime security, among others.
The NSA disclosed that Nigeria had made efforts to implement its own bargain of the commitments made during the inaugural dialogue, which include the establishment of the Anti-Kidnapping Fusion Centre and the integration of civil security outfit into the Fusion Cell.
He added that the country has also enacted measures to reinforce compliance to Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law in the conduct of security and defence related operations.
In her remarks, the UK National Security Adviser, Tim Barrow, said his country shared in the determination to contribute separately and together for a better world where peace, security, stability and prosperity reign.
Barrow, represented by his Deputy, Dame Sarah Macintosh, said the two countries could through the partnership and dialogue, advance those shared objectives and deepen partnership and friendship to build on their national security.
“UK is fully committed to our friendship and partnership with Nigeria and we thank you for your commitment to that partnership there too, and I’m personally delighted to be part of strengthening and deepening it through this dialogue.
“As security challenges around the world grow, it has become increasingly crucial to support our allies to uphold regional and international peace.
“This week we reaffirmed our commitment to Nigeria, building on progress made since the last UK-Nigeria Security and Defence Partnership dialogue, from tackling terrorism and countering violent extremism to defending against cyber-attacks.
“I extend my sincere appreciation to the Government of Nigeria for their partnership and look forward to continuing to deepen our cooperation across our Security and Defence Partnership,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NSAs of UK and Nigeria used the event to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cyber Security.
NAN