President Bola Tinubu on Monday showered praise on National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu during a high-profile visit to Yola, Adamawa State, declaring confidence in his leadership to defeat banditry and terrorism nationwide.
The one-day official trip saw Tinubu commission several infrastructure projects executed by Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri's administration, while reaffirming his commitment to sustaining economic reforms for greater citizen prosperity and inclusion.
Tinubu, addressing a gathering that included governors from neighbouring states, ministers, senators, and traditional leaders, singled out Ribadu—an indigene of Adamawa—for exceptional performance. "National Security Adviser, the son of the soil, Nuhudeen Ribadu. I must say it clearly here that you’re doing an excellent job, and we are seeing the result. With you, we will defeat the bandits and terrorists," Tinubu stated, according to the official State House release.
He further described Ribadu as "honest, bold, courageous and committed to the job," adding, "You’re a good National Security Adviser... I believe the state of Adamawa is strongly proud of you because I am too." The commendation came amid ongoing national security challenges, with Tinubu expressing optimism about coordinated efforts yielding visible progress.
Tinubu lauded Fintiri's prudent management of increased federal allocations to deliver impactful developments. Projects commissioned included a model school (one of 21 built across the state's 21 local government areas), the eight-lane expanded Galadima Aminu Way with overhead bridge, underpass, and dualised Gimba Road, a remodelled state High Court complex, and a new Government House office complex.
Tinubu noted these initiatives demonstrated effective resource use for education, justice, mobility, and governance. "Umaru Fintiri, I’ve seen a tremendous amount of renewal, commitment from you in investments in the education of our children, and I commend your vision and commitment to the development of Adamawa State," he said.
Governor Fintiri welcomed the president, expressing gratitude for the visit and crediting Tinubu's policies for empowering states. "Your bold federalism has empowered states to deliver democracy dividends," Fintiri remarked at a reception.
The event drew attendance from governors of Taraba, Borno, Plateau, Gombe, and Yobe.