National Security Adviser (NSA) to President Bola Tinubu, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has called for a fundamental shift in Nigeria’s anti-corruption strategy—from reactive arrests and prosecutions to systemic, preventive approaches capable of dismantling the culture of graft before it festers.
Ribadu, a former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), made the call on Saturday while delivering the 9th Oba Sikiru Adetona Annual Professorial Lecture, held at Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago Iwoye, Ogun State. The lecture was part of activities marking the 91st birthday of the Awujale and Paramount Ruler of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona.
Represented by the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi, Ribadu said corruption remains the single most destructive force undermining Nigeria’s development and security, weakening institutions, hollowing out public trust, and fuelling insecurity.
“You cannot address Nigeria’s insecurity without tackling the role of corruption,” Ribadu said. “From diverted security funds to compromised procurement processes, the ripple effect is weakened institutions and emboldened threats.”
He stressed that while prosecution is necessary, it is only a reactive response, often too late in stemming the systemic rot.
“To win the war against corruption, we must prevent it before it starts,” Ribadu declared. “We need systems that make it difficult—if not impossible—for people to be corrupt. Arrests and convictions alone won’t get us there.”
Ribadu also challenged the notion that corruption is limited to political office holders, noting that the malaise cuts across all layers of society.
“Corruption is not just about government. It lives among individuals too,” he said. “This fight must be both institutional and moral. Citizens must reject both taking and offering bribes. It is our collective wealth being stolen.”
He tied the anti-corruption fight directly to national security, revealing that over 160,000 Boko Haram combatants have surrendered in recent years, with more than 300 commanders neutralised and about 2,500 insurgents undergoing rehabilitation and reintegration.
According to him, the Tinubu administration views national security as a shared responsibility and is working with state and local authorities, civil society, traditional leaders, youth and women groups, and the private sector to ensure a more coordinated approach to peace and stability.
In his tribute to the Awujale, Ribadu praised Oba Sikiru Adetona as a fearless traditional leader and advocate for good governance.
“Oba Adetona is a rare symbol of courage, dignity and integrity. At 91, he remains a towering moral force and a relentless champion of progressive governance,” he said.
Speaking at the event, the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of OOU, Prof. Oluwatoyin Ashiru, described the monarch as the university’s most generous benefactor.
“Kabiyesi’s contributions to Olabisi Onabanjo University are immeasurable. From endowments to infrastructure, he has transformed our institution,” Ashiru said. He highlighted the establishment of the Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona School for Governance Studies—now affiliated with the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies in Kuru—as one of the monarch’s lasting legacies.
OOU’s Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Deji Agboola, also paid glowing tribute to the monarch, describing him as “a royal icon, philanthropist, and fearless voice for justice.”
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, praised the Awujale for his leadership and his moral and cultural contributions to national development.
“Oba Adetona continues to inspire with his unwavering commitment to truth, justice, and the common good,” Abiodun stated.
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