At the conference themed ‘Leveraging Defence Diplomacy and Regional Collaboration for Enhanced National Security,’ Ribadu emphasized the challenges faced by the federal government in managing the country’s financial affairs.

“We are facing very serious budgetary constraints,” he stated candidly. “We have inherited a very difficult country, a bankrupt country to the extent that we are paying back what was taken. It is serious.”

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Despite the financial hurdles, Ribadu commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) for their exceptional performance in upholding national peace. “You have done well and you are doing well. You are the reason why we are a nation today,” he expressed his gratitude.

Acknowledging the ongoing efforts to address these challenges, Ribadu lauded the current administration’s commitment to meeting the country’s requirements, particularly those of the armed forces. “But this administration is doing its best to meet our requirements including that of the armed forces,” he affirmed.

He also pointed out the significant improvement in the country’s security situation despite the financial constraints, underscoring the dedicated efforts of the service chiefs and the security team.

Despite the financial hurdles, Ribadu highlighted significant improvements in the country’s security situation. He also recalled his previous role as the Director of Field Operations of the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign council in 2019, appointed by Buhari.

Under his leadership, Ribadu was tasked with implementing the election monitoring team’s plan to develop APC field agents for monitoring the conduct and vote count during election days.

Buhari emerged victorious in the 2019 general elections and secured a second term as Nigeria’s president for four years.

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