As incidents of attacks and mass abductions increase across Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency, unveiling sweeping measures to reinforce the country’s fight against terrorism and banditry.
In a personally signed statement, Tinubu announced that the Nigerian Armed Forces and police would embark on additional recruitment drives.
The police are authorised to recruit 20,000 new officers, raising their strength to 50,000, while the army will also expand its ranks.
He explained that National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps would be converted into training depots, and officers withdrawn from VIP guard duties would undergo crash training before redeployment to volatile areas.
Forest Guards and Counter-Terror Operations
The President directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits hiding in Nigeria’s forests.
He also authorised the recruitment of more personnel to secure rural corridors. “There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu declared, urging citizens to cooperate with security agencies and remain vigilant.
Tinubu commended security forces for recent rescues, including the release of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara. He pledged continued efforts to free students abducted in Niger State and other hostages nationwide.
“There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence. The Nigerian people are counting on you,” he told the Armed Forces.
Legislative and Policy Measures
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to review Nigeria’s laws to allow states that require state police to establish them.
He urged state governments to reconsider boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security and advised religious institutions to seek police protection during gatherings.
He highlighted the creation of the Livestock Ministry to address herder–farmer clashes, urging herder associations to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons.
“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony,” he said.
National Resolve
The President sympathised with families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, paying tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier‑General Musa Uba.
He warned that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness, vowing that his administration has the courage and determination to secure the nation.
“Fellow compatriots, I urge you not to give in to fear or despair. Let’s stand together in purpose and strength to defend our freedom and values. Our administration will continue to guarantee peaceful co‑existence and preserve our union,” Tinubu said.
His declaration follows mounting grave concern after the killing of at least five people in Kebbi and Kwara, and the abduction of more than 300 children from schools in Kebbi and Niger States.
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