Abdulsalami Abubakar Urges Nigeria to Unite Against Insecurity

Former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.) has stated that every Nigerian has a stake in the fight against insecurity. He argues that defeating terrorism and other criminal activities requires citizens to collaborate with security agencies and the government at all levels.

In a statement released on his 84th birthday, Abubakar reflected on the nation’s condition and voiced concern over the worsening security situation across the country. He noted that the recent death of Major General Abubakar Rabe (retd.) and the suffering of many Nigerians affected by insecurity underscore the urgency of collective action to restore peace and stability.

Drawing on his years of service in the Nigerian Armed Forces—including participation in the Nigerian Civil War and peacekeeping operations abroad—he said he has a deep understanding of the sacrifices required to protect the nation. He also acknowledged that many countries are facing economic and security difficulties.

Abubakar urged Nigeria to remain focused on efforts to maintain law and order, adding that security agencies have shown commitment in confronting terrorism. He insisted that citizens must also play active roles in defeating the criminal elements threatening national unity.

He blamed the politicisation of security issues for worsening the crisis, warning that divisive narratives and selfish interests have weakened efforts to address insecurity.

Expressing concern over the spread of misinformation and fake news on social media, Abubakar said such actions have emboldened terrorists and criminal groups by promoting false narratives and propaganda. He urged Nigerians to set aside ethnic, religious, and political differences and unite against those responsible for violence and instability.

The former leader noted that criminals do not discriminate based on identity and further encouraged members of the armed forces and other security agencies to remain resolute in carrying out their duties despite the challenges they face.

He also called on authorities to sustain decisive measures aimed at ending insecurity and preventing further loss of lives.

Reaffirming his commitment to the unity of Nigeria, the former Head of State said he still dreams of a peaceful and prosperous nation that future generations can inherit.

He appealed to citizens to remain calm, law‑abiding, and vigilant while offering prayers for the families of security personnel and other victims who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Abubakar emphasized that the success of this objective must be inclusive. The armed forces and all other security agencies have been strong in the fight against terrorism, but this is not their fight alone.

Every citizen has a stake, and he pleaded that Nigerians unite to fight against terror, according to the statement.

He said that over the years, the politicisation of security matters has worsened the situation, bringing the country to its current state. He urged people to join forces with the government and security agencies at all levels to defeat these evil forces, which do not recognise ethnicity, religion, political party, communal life, or other forms of identity.

Abubakar also warned that propaganda for political and other selfish gains is giving oxygen to terrorist groups. He noted that the use of fake news on social media to spread false narratives encourages terrorists and other criminal groups. He added that the success of one terrorist group encourages another, and unless there is a rethink, the crisis will continue to grow.

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