By Huldah Shado
Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has blamed rising insecurity and social unrest in the country on widespread hunger and poverty.
Speaking at the 14th National Security Seminar in Abuja, Ribadu, represented by Major General PP Mala, said poverty is not just a social issue but a direct catalyst for crime, violence, and national instability.
“Hunger and poverty are catalysts for insecurity, crime, and social disintegration.
“They form a vicious cycle; poverty fuels insecurity, and insecurity deepens poverty,” he stated.
The seminar, themed “Combating Hunger and Poverty for Sustainable Peace and Development in Nigeria,” was organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College, the Office of the National Security Adviser, and the National Defence College.
Ribadu noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is tackling the challenge through agricultural reforms, social investment initiatives, and enhanced security sector interventions.
He also highlighted government efforts to improve food security and expand agricultural infrastructure as essential steps toward national stability.
