The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to deeper collaboration with states in tackling emerging security challenges across the country.
The assurance was given at the opening of the 2026 Federal and States Security Administrators Meeting held in Jos, Plateau State.
The gathering brought together security administrators, state advisers, federal officials and representatives of various security agencies nationwide.
Participants discussed strategies for addressing terrorism, cybercrime, organised crime, intelligence gathering and arms control.
Chairman of the forum and Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office, Sani Yargaya, said security challenges require sustained cooperation among stakeholders.
He noted that previous investments in peacebuilding and conflict resolution had produced positive outcomes despite lingering communal conflicts.
“While we still live with some of these challenges, we should not in any way think that these efforts did not produce results,” Yargaya said.
According to him, achieving lasting peace demands stronger institutions and continuous engagement among governments, communities and security agencies.
“Government alone cannot solve these challenges. There is a need for renewed commitment, stronger institutions, inclusive governance and sustained peacebuilding,” he added.
Yargaya explained that the meeting would also feature presentations from specialised security centres under the Office of the National Security Adviser.
The sessions are expected to improve coordination between federal and state authorities on emerging security concerns.
Representing National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Asishana Okauru stressed the importance of a unified national security framework.
He said the Office of the National Security Adviser remains committed to strengthening intelligence sharing and structured engagement.
According to Okauru, effective governance remains a critical component of national security and stability.
“Security today demands coordination, trust and structured engagement across all levels of governance,” he stated.
He added that “security is not merely the absence of conflict; it is the presence of good governance.”
Okauru commended the Plateau State Government for initiatives aimed at improving security within the state.
He cited the revitalisation of Operation Rainbow and the deployment of surveillance drones as significant achievements.
Other measures included the reconstitution of the Plateau State Interfaith Advisory Council and the inauguration of a committee on state policing.
The NSA representative also called for increased vigilance ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He urged security administrators to prioritise intelligence sharing and counter misinformation capable of undermining public trust.
“As the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections, all security administrators must prioritise early coordination,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of timely intelligence sharing and vigilance against false information.
Plateau State Deputy Governor Josephine Piyo declared the conference open on behalf of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.
She described the hosting of the meeting as recognition of the state’s commitment to peace and national security.
“It is with profound honour and immense pride that I welcome you to Plateau State,” Piyo said.
She observed that terrorism, banditry, cybercrime and electoral violence require collective responses from all levels of government.
According to her, cooperation remains the strongest tool for overcoming Nigeria’s security challenges.
“Security is a shared responsibility, and collaboration remains our greatest strength,” she stated.
Piyo noted that Plateau’s history of conflict has strengthened efforts toward reconciliation and community-based peace initiatives.
She said the state continues to encourage inter-agency cooperation and citizen participation in security efforts.
“Plateau stands as a testament to the fact that peace is achievable when leadership is purposeful,” she said.
She added that responsive institutions and united citizens remain essential for sustainable peace.
The meeting is expected to produce recommendations aimed at improving intelligence sharing nationwide.
Participants are also expected to propose measures for strengthening counter-terrorism operations and federal-state cooperation.
The outcome of the conference is expected to contribute to a more effective security framework for addressing evolving threats across Nigeria.
