The Presidency has dismissed reports suggesting that the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, resigned from office following the creation of the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Homeland Security.
A senior security source close to the Presidency described the claims as false, baseless, and misleading, insisting that Ribadu remains fully in office and continues to coordinate Nigeria’s national security operations.
According to the source, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appointment of retired Major General Adeyinka A. Famadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture and improve coordination among security agencies.
Famadewa previously served as Principal Staff Officer to former National Security Adviser, retired Major General Babagana Monguno, between 2015 and 2021.
The source explained that the newly established Homeland Security office is designed to complement existing security structures, similar to the Department of Homeland Security model, with responsibilities focused on immigration, civil defence, transportation safety, and domestic intelligence coordination.
It was further clarified that the new office does not conflict with the constitutional responsibilities of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA).
“The rumours suggesting Mallam Nuhu Ribadu resigned are entirely false and should be disregarded,” the source stated.
The official added that the evolving nature of security threats in Nigeria, including terrorism, banditry, cybercrime, transnational crimes, and economic sabotage, requires more integrated and coordinated security frameworks.
According to the source, Ribadu continues to enjoy the confidence of President Tinubu and remains actively involved in intelligence management, inter-agency collaboration, and national security coordination across the country.
The Presidency also urged Nigerians to disregard speculative reports capable of creating unnecessary tension or confusion within the nation’s security environment.