National security refers to the security of a nation-state, including its citizens, economy, and institutions, and is regarded as a duty of government. National security encompasses the traditional focus on military defense and intelligence work and other matters relating to political security, economic security, environmental security, and the security from non-traditional threats like energy shortages, infectious disease outbreaks, etc.
On the other hand, national defense traditionally refers more specifically to the measures a state takes to defend itself against military aggression, primarily through the use of its armed forces. It is a subset of national security. While national security is broader in scope and includes a wide variety of potential threats and corresponding measures, national defense specifically focuses on military threats and the use of military power to deter or defeat those threats.
Appointment of Nuhu Ribadu
One of President Bola Tinubu's best steps so far was appointing Nuhu Ribadu, a retired police officer, as his National Security Adviser (NSA) instead of former Military Generals who have failed to live up to expectations in such a position for several years. While traditionally, many countries in the Global South prefer military generals for such jobs, given their vast experience in dealing with security threats and warfare. However, copying from advanced democracy in the Global North, appointing a retired police officer or academics can bring a different perspective.
Police officers often have deep experience in law enforcement, community engagement, and internal security measures. They are trained to de-escalate situations, work within communities, and focus on prevention and response. This can be particularly useful in handling domestic issues, civil unrest, and threats that require more nuanced responses than straightforward military action.
On the other hand, military generals often have experience on a more significant strategic scale. They are usually well-versed in dealing with external threats and matters of defense policy and military logistics.
Nigeria is not facing external aggression; the problem is more domestic issues that cannot be solved with only a military approach.There are several reasons to consider someone without a military background, including;
1. Civilian Oversight: The position of National Security Advisor requires civilian oversight and a balance between military and civilian perspectives. Appointing a retired military general could tilt the balance too heavily towards a military mindset, potentially undermining the principle of civilian control over the military. The National Security Advisor is crucial to the President and should provide diverse perspectives from various fields, including diplomacy, intelligence, law, and economics, to ensure comprehensive decision-making.
2. Political Neutrality: The National Security Advisor's role involves providing objective and unbiased advice to the President on national security matters. Retired military generals may have personal biases or preconceived notions based on their military experience and affiliations. It is vital to have individuals in this position who can approach national security issues from a non-partisan perspective and prioritize the entire nation's interests rather than specific military interests.
3. Broad Skill Set: The National Security Advisor requires a wide range of skills beyond military expertise. They must deeply understand diplomacy, intelligence analysis, international relations, economics, and domestic policy. While retired military generals may possess significant knowledge and experience in military strategy, their expertise might not necessarily extend to these other critical areas. A diverse skill set is necessary to address national security's complex and multifaceted challenges
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4. Collaboration and Interagency Cooperation: The National Security Advisor plays a central role in coordinating and integrating the efforts of various government agencies involved in national security. This includes the military, intelligence agencies, diplomatic corps, and law enforcement agencies. While retired military generals may have experience in leading military operations, their experience in interagency cooperation and collaboration across different sectors might be limited. Effective coordination and collaboration across agencies are crucial for successful national security decision-making and implementation.
5. Separation of Powers: The appointment of retired military generals as National Security Advisors can raise concerns about blurring lines between military and civilian spheres. It is vital to maintain the separation of powers and avoid an overreliance on military perspectives in shaping national security policies. The military's role is to execute policies formulated by civilian authorities, and having a retired military general as a National Security Advisor could potentially undermine this principle.
While retired military generals may possess valuable insights and experience in the realm of national security, it is essential to ensure a balance of perspectives, expertise, and civilian oversight in the position of National Security Advisor. This helps to foster a comprehensive and holistic approach to national security decision-making encompassing diverse perspectives and priorities.
Oludare Ogunlana, Ph.D., a national security intelligence professor, writes from Texas, USA.