“Underestimate Tinubu at Your Own Risk” — NSA Nuhu Ribadu Warns as Presidency Flexes Political Might

In a firm and cautionary declaration that echoed across Nigeria’s political landscape, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, has warned detractors and doubters alike against underestimating the political strength and strategic brilliance of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Ribadu, who made the bold remark during an official engagement in Abuja, stated unequivocally that anyone who doubts Tinubu’s capacity does so “at their peril,” emphasizing the President’s long-standing influence and calculated leadership style that has repeatedly proven critics wrong.

The comment from Ribadu comes at a time when whispers of political discontent and undercurrents of opposition swirl through corridors of power. In his warning, the NSA did not mince words, painting a vivid portrait of a man who has weathered decades of political storms, dismantled strongholds, built formidable alliances, and survived Nigeria’s volatile political terrain with a tenacity that few can match. Ribadu’s remarks were not merely defensive; they were a battle cry, a deliberate call to attention from those who still misjudge Tinubu’s reach and readiness.

President Bola Tinubu, a former governor of Lagos State and national leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ascended to the presidency in 2023 after a hard-fought electoral battle. Since then, his presidency has not been without turbulence—ranging from economic downturns, rising insecurity, to fuel subsidy removals that stirred national unrest. However, what Ribadu’s statement seeks to highlight is the depth of Tinubu’s political DNA: one steeped in strategy, patience, and long-term vision. “He is not a man you take for granted,” Ribadu said, adding that Tinubu “understands the dynamics of power, loyalty, governance, and resilience better than most.”

Critics of Tinubu have often pointed to what they perceive as his health challenges or age as limitations to his leadership capacity, a narrative Ribadu fiercely countered. “Let no one be deceived,” he said. “President Tinubu is as alert, deliberate, and focused as he was during his days at the helm in Lagos.” Ribadu, a former anti-corruption czar and respected figure in security circles, emphasized that Nigeria's leadership is in firm hands, led by a man who thrives in the most complex political chess games.

While the country continues to battle with socio-economic instability, Ribadu’s declaration was seen by many as both a vote of confidence and a sharp warning to political opponents. With the 2027 general elections slowly approaching on the horizon, power blocs, opposition parties, and interest groups are beginning to realign and recalibrate strategies. Ribadu’s message appears to serve as a deterrent to those plotting to capitalize on perceived weaknesses in the Tinubu administration.

Many political watchers recall how Tinubu was instrumental in the formation of the APC, which broke the 16-year rule of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and brought Muhammadu Buhari into office in 2015. His political genius was evident in the way he forged alliances across the north and south, broke ethnic and religious divides, and built a party that, despite its internal contradictions, has remained Nigeria’s ruling force. Ribadu referenced this legacy, saying, “This is a man who built bridges when others were burning them. He sees ten steps ahead. Underestimating him is a fatal error.”

Indeed, insiders within Aso Rock have consistently described Tinubu as a “silent storm,” someone who speaks softly but wields immense behind-the-scenes influence. Unlike predecessors who sought media dominance, Tinubu has remained deliberate in his silence, choosing to speak through policies, appointments, and strategic reforms. From controversial decisions like the removal of fuel subsidies, to currency reforms, and security overhauls, the President’s actions have consistently demonstrated a willingness to make difficult, unpopular choices for long-term national gains.

Ribadu’s statement also sheds light on the unity within Tinubu’s inner circle, signaling that those closest to power are rallying behind the President with fierce loyalty. While internal party conflicts and regional grievances continue to rear their heads, the NSA’s comments are a stark reminder that the presidency is consolidating, not crumbling. “We know what we’re doing. The country is being steered by a visionary,” Ribadu assured.

The reaction to Ribadu’s statement has been mixed. Loyalists and supporters of the President have hailed it as a timely reminder of Tinubu’s unmatched political pedigree. Social media platforms exploded with trending hashtags supporting the President, with many highlighting his enduring legacy and contributions to democratic growth in Nigeria. Conversely, opposition figures have accused Ribadu of attempting to silence dissent and discourage legitimate scrutiny of the administration.

Nonetheless, what remains clear is that the message has been sent loud and clear: President Bola Tinubu is not to be taken lightly. For a man who once famously described politics as a game of chess, every move from the presidency appears deliberate—even the silent ones. Ribadu’s tone was not of a man issuing an empty threat, but of one who has seen Tinubu’s political blueprint up close and believes it would be a grave mistake to bet against it.

In the coming months, Nigeria is expected to witness even more decisive actions from the Tinubu administration. From economic recovery strategies to security revamps and judicial reforms, the presidency appears poised to assert its agenda with renewed vigor. Whether or not these actions will placate an increasingly frustrated citizenry remains to be seen, but one thing is now evident—those writing off Tinubu are doing so with a blindfold on.

As the political heat slowly builds, and the opposition tests the waters of 2027, Nuhu Ribadu’s statement may very well be the opening salvo in a larger campaign of strength and calculated assertion. “Those who are laughing today will cry tomorrow if they continue to underestimate this President,” he said with a tone that mixed reverence with certainty.

If history is anything to go by, Bola Tinubu has always thrived on being doubted. From exile during the dark days of military rule to becoming Lagos’ most transformative governor, and finally emerging as Nigeria’s Commander-in-Chief—he is the embodiment of political rebirth. Ribadu’s warning may just be a reminder that beneath the quiet exterior lies a man with a roadmap that only a few can truly decipher, and even fewer can match.