The National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, yesterday outlined the achievements of President Bola Tinubu’s administration over the past 18 months, promising a firm response against the newly emerged terrorist group, Lakurawa, which is reportedly active in Nigeria’s North-West states of Kebbi and Sokoto.

The Islamist insurgent group, believed to have links with militants from Niger and Mali, carried out its most significant attack last Friday, killing 15 people. The group’s activities have reportedly increased in Nigeria following the July 2023 coup in Niger, which halted joint military patrols along the borders.

Addressing the security threat directly, Ribadu assured Nigerians that President Tinubu would crush Lakurawa, as the administration did with Boko Haram.

Ribadu spoke at the opening of the Comptroller General of Customs’ Conference 2024, themed “Nigeria Customs Service: Engaging Traditional and New Partners with Purpose”, held in Abuja.

“Lakurawa made a grave mistake by emerging,” Ribadu stated, adding, “they will be crushed and removed from Nigeria.”

The NSA emphasised that anyone threatening the peace and security of the country would face serious consequences, insisting that those who challenge the president do so at their peril.

“This is Nigeria in 2024, a nation where critics will be silenced one by one. Many areas, particularly in the Niger Delta, are safer now. Oil production has increased to 1.8 million barrels per day, a level not seen in years,” Ribadu said.

Discussing the administration’s accomplishments, Ribadu noted that peace was gradually returning to the South-East, while bandits in the North were either being killed or surrendering daily.

“Things are changing, and there is no longer special treatment for the wealthy over the poor,” he pointed out.

Commenting on Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) reforms, Ribadu said the bank was now “clean,” and assured that stabilisation of the Naira was underway with the support of a competent team.

He mentioned that recent diplomatic successes were drawing worldwide support, noting that President Tinubu recently returned from India and would host the Indian and German Presidents in November. Nigeria has also been invited to the G20, with over 20 other nations requesting presidential visits.

The Comptroller General of Customs, Mr. Bashir Adeniyi, announced that the Nigeria Customs Service had achieved its 2024 revenue target of N5.07 trillion by November 12, surpassing it with collections totalling N5.10 trillion.

Addressing the conference virtually, World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala commended ongoing trade reforms and emphasised the need for further improvements. She mentioned that WTO members would review Nigeria’s trade policies, which will provide insights into the country’s policy environment and potential improvements.

President Tinubu highlighted his administration’s focus on global trade, investment, and modernising infrastructure, saying the government’s commitment to a favourable business environment had boosted international investor confidence.

The President praised the Customs Service for enhancing Nigeria’s trade-friendly image through strategic reforms, which had improved the country’s global ranking and ease of doing business.

In closing remarks, Adeniyi attributed the Customs Service’s historic revenue performance to partnerships and reforms, which he said were key to successful revenue generation and trade facilitation.

He outlined notable seizures, including wildlife products, arms, narcotics, and pharmaceuticals, emphasising that enforcement had effectively safeguarded public health and safety. The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, also acknowledged Customs’ contributions, affirming the armed forces’ commitment to working with the agency to secure Nigeria’s borders.