National Security Adviser (Nigeria)


The National Security Adviser is a senior official in the cabinet of the President of Nigeria who serves as the chief advisor to the President on national security issues. The National Security Adviser participates in the meetings of the National Security Council, and other deliberations on security and intelligence matters. The National Security Adviser is appointed by the President and does not require confirmation from the Nigerian Senate.

History

was appointed Coordinator of National Security by military head of state Ibrahim Babangida from 1986 to 1989. In this role, he led the dismantling of the National Security Organisation into the State Security Service, National Intelligence Agency and the Defence Intelligence Agency.
The politico-military situation of the early 1990s required the need for a central body for coordination, control and supervision of national security in Nigeria. In January 1993, Aliyu Gusau was appointed National Security Adviser. In August 1993, Ismaila Gwarzo replaced him and continued following the seizure of power by Sani Abacha. In June 1998, Abdullahi Mohammed, the former director of the National Security Organization was appointed to the position.

Functions

The functions of the National Security Adviser varies from administration to administration; and depends, not only on the qualities of the person appointed to the position, but also on the style and management philosophy of the incumbent President.
The National Security Adviser manages national security on behalf of the President through the National Security Council, the Joint Intelligence Board and the Intelligence Community Committee. The National Security Advisor is the principal officer of the National Security Council and advises the President on national security issues.

List of National Security Advisers (1999–present">Fourth Nigerian Republic">1999–present)