President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially declared a nationwide security emergency in response to the escalating threats of terrorism, banditry, and general insecurity across Nigeria, signaling a robust and comprehensive approach to protect citizens and safeguard communities from violent attacks.
In a formal statement issued from the Presidential Villa, Aso Rock, on Wednesday, President Tinubu outlined sweeping measures that include the immediate recruitment and deployment of security personnel to strengthen operations in high-risk areas. He emphasised the urgency of the situation, describing the current security landscape as critical and requiring decisive government intervention.
PBAT Approves Massive Security Recruitment
The President authorised the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police officers, increasing the total number of officers available for national security operations to 50,000. The Nigeria Police Force has been instructed to utilise National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training facilities for the new recruits. Additionally, police officers previously assigned to VIP protection duties will undergo a targeted crash retraining programme before being redeployed to critical security zones nationwide.
Beyond the police, President Tinubu directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to locate and neutralise terrorist groups hiding in remote forest areas. The DSS has also been mandated to recruit additional personnel to strengthen surveillance and operational capabilities, particularly in regions prone to attacks or where law enforcement presence is limited.
Describing the situation as a national emergency, the President emphasised that the government is taking strong measures to put more “boots on the ground” as communities continue to face violent threats. He called on all citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and actively participate in ensuring the safety of their neighborhoods and communities.
President Tinubu commended the security agencies for their recent efforts, including the successful rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 kidnapped worshippers in Kwara State. He reassured Nigerians that ongoing operations to free other victims, including students from St Mary’s Catholic School in Niger State, remain a top priority of his administration.
The President also urged the National Assembly to review legislation that would enable interested states to establish their own police outfits, aiming to reinforce security at the state level. He called on state governments to enhance protection around boarding schools and encouraged religious institutions, especially in high-risk areas, to secure regular security coverage during services and gatherings.
Addressing Herders-Farmers Clashes
In a bid to curb the persistent clashes between herders and farmers, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development. He encouraged herder associations to adopt ranching practices, surrender illegal firearms, and comply with state security guidelines. The government intends to implement measures that reduce conflicts over grazing lands while promoting peaceful coexistence between communities.
PBAT Condoles With Victims and Security Forces
The President extended heartfelt condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States. He also paid tribute to the military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba. Tinubu reassured the public that the administration remains fully committed to fighting insecurity and will not tolerate attempts to destabilise national peace.
He appealed to citizens to remain calm, united, and vigilant, stressing that victory over insecurity requires collective effort and cooperation between the government, security agencies, and the general public. President Tinubu warned that anyone attempting to undermine the country’s security should not misinterpret the government’s restraint as weakness.
See statement below for further details…
