The Youth Wing of the Christian Association of Nigeria (YOWICAN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to sack the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, over what it described as his failure to effectively coordinate the country’s security operations.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its leaders, Bako Elijah and Sunday Aimu, the group said Nigeria’s worsening insecurity highlights “deep systemic failures” in the nation’s security framework.
“The bitter truth is that the current wave of insecurity reveals deep weaknesses in our national security architecture,” the statement read. “While many officers serve with patriotism, others have been compromised, undermining national cohesion and public trust.”
The Christian youths accused some government officials and religious leaders of colluding with terrorist groups and urged the federal government to identify and prosecute those sponsoring violence across the country.
They also expressed concern over the rise in hate preaching and religious incitement, warning that inflammatory sermons could further threaten national unity. “Religion should unite, not divide our people,” the group said. “Clerics and traditional rulers who exploit faith platforms to promote hate or violence must be held accountable.”
YOWICAN called for the immediate replacement of the NSA with a “competent, nonpartisan, and nationally trusted professional” and urged the Tinubu administration to adopt a more inclusive approach to governance that reflects Nigeria’s religious and regional diversity.
“Mr President, the time for decisive leadership is now,” the statement added. “Nigerians are yearning for safety, justice, and trust in governance. Speaking the truth is our patriotic duty to strengthen Nigeria.”
The group’s demand comes amid renewed international focus on Nigeria’s security challenges, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent designation of Nigeria as a “Country of Particular Concern” and his warning of possible military action over reported attacks on Christians.