Northeast Youth Leaders Demand Review of NSA’s Office to Complete Security Reforms

The Coalition of Northeast Youth Group Leaders has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold and historic decision to remove Nigeria’s Service Chiefs, describing it as a clear demonstration of decisive leadership and a step toward genuine reform of the nation’s security architecture.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Comrade Mohammed Grema Adamu, the coalition applauded the President for showing the courage to take action where others hesitated, noting that the move represents a strong message of accountability and renewal within the armed forces.

“This decision is not just a routine administrative reshuffle, but a historic milestone in the ongoing effort to reposition Nigeria’s security leadership. It shows the President’s resolve to safeguard the stability of the Republic and rebuild citizens’ confidence in the nation’s defense institutions,” the statement read.

However, the group urged the President to extend his reform efforts to the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), insisting that true reform would be incomplete without a comprehensive review of the NSA’s structure, coordination framework, and operational accountability.

“We therefore call for an urgent audit and performance review of the Office of the National Security Adviser. Our position is not punitive but patriotic — aimed at ensuring transparency, efficiency, and institutional integrity in all national security operations,” the statement added.

The coalition emphasized that all security agencies and coordinating offices must undergo regular performance reviews to maintain professionalism and public trust. It further urged the Federal Government to initiate an audit of recent operations and decision-making processes within the NSA’s purview, with the goal of strengthening inter-agency collaboration and restoring public confidence in the nation’s security system.

Quoting Section 1(2) of the 1999 Constitution, the group reminded that no individual or group of persons should exercise authority outside constitutional provisions, adding that the nation’s stability depends on the vigilance and accountability of all security institutions.

“Mr President has shown courage, resolve, and leadership in this delicate period of our national life. Nigerians now look to him to consolidate these efforts by cleansing the system of inefficiency and rebuilding our national security apparatus on the pillars of trust, professionalism, and constitutional loyalty,” the statement noted.

The coalition also called for enhanced collaboration between the Presidency and civil society groups, particularly in the North-East, to ensure citizens’ voices are included in the ongoing reform process. It warned that if there was no visible engagement or response within seven days, the group would mobilize peaceful demonstrations to demand transparency and good governance.

“Our collective security and democratic stability depend on transparency and reform,” the statement concluded. “We must rally behind the President’s vision of a secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria — one where no office or institution stands above scrutiny or the rule of law.”