President Bola Tinubu has pledged to intensify efforts to tackle insecurity across Nigeria, describing it as a major obstacle to development and national progress.
Tinubu made this known on Sunday while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his Lagos residence during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
According to a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president emphasised the need for collective action in confronting security challenges.
“Your presence here today and the number show your sincerity, commitment and value for friendship and togetherness.
“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face, and that is the challenge of insecurity in the country,” Tinubu said.
He added, “I am making all the efforts to ensure that we collectively share the joy of our victory over tyranny. Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity. I am glad you are all mindful of the challenge.”
Tinubu revealed that his administration is strengthening international partnerships to boost Nigeria’s security capacity, noting discussions with global leaders, including Emmanuel Macron.
“For me, I have committed to strengthening further the contacts and networks that are necessary. One of the major discussions in the United Kingdom was on equipment and support.
“I can report to you that yesterday, again, I had a lengthy discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron. They are collaborating with us for equipment and support. I am also making frantic efforts to contact other nations,” he stated.
The president also urged governors to prioritise the welfare of vulnerable citizens, warning that the ongoing Middle East crisis could worsen inflation and reduce purchasing power.
“We should care more for the vulnerable. I know this Middle East crisis will spike inflation and affect our purchasing power. The labour union and others will be gearing up to ask us to support more due to the effect of the Middle East war and crisis,” he said.
He further advised state leaders to introduce measures that would cushion the economic impact of rising energy and transportation costs, particularly amid the surge in petrol prices nationwide.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended Tinubu’s interventions and reaffirmed the governors’ commitment to addressing insecurity.
“Together, we must see that the issue of insecurity comes to an end. Regarding state police, discussions are ongoing with various security agencies led by the National Security Adviser, and the NGF has made its contributions. The NGF will take the document to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for the state police,” he said.
The meeting was attended by several governors, including Hope Uzodimma, Alex Otti, and Babajide Sanwo-Olu, among others.
What you should know
President Tinubu’s renewed commitment to tackling insecurity comes amid rising concerns over violence and economic pressures in Nigeria.
His emphasis on international collaboration suggests a strategy focused on strengthening military capacity through foreign support. At the same time, the push for state policing indicates ongoing structural reforms aimed at decentralising security.
With inflation expected to rise due to global crises, the administration is also urging governors to adopt measures that protect vulnerable citizens and stabilise livelihoods.
