President Bola Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency in response to escalating threats across the country, announcing sweeping measures to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Massive Recruitment Drive
Under the new directive, the Nigerian Police Force will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, raising its total strength to 50,000 personnel. The Nigerian Army has also been authorised to expand its ranks. Tinubu further approved the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as training depots to accelerate the process.
Officers currently assigned to VIP guard duties will be redeployed after undergoing crash training, ensuring their skills are redirected to frontline operations in security-challenged regions.
DSS and Forest Guards Deployment
The President also empowered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits hiding in Nigeria’s forests. The DSS has been instructed to recruit additional personnel to secure these vulnerable areas.
“There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu declared.
Commendation of Security Agencies
Tinubu praised security agencies for their recent successes, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State. He pledged continued efforts to free students abducted from Catholic School in Niger State and other Nigerians still held hostage.
Call for State Police and Community Vigilance
The President urged the National Assembly to review laws enabling states to establish their own police forces where necessary. He also advised states to reconsider boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security and encouraged religious institutions to seek police protection during gatherings.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s support for state-backed security outfits and called on citizens to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement.
Addressing Herders-Farmers Clashes
Highlighting the creation of a Livestock Ministry, Tinubu urged herder associations to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons. He stressed that ranching is the sustainable path forward for national harmony.
Tribute to Fallen Soldiers
The President expressed sympathy for families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, and paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
“No Compromise on Security”
Tinubu vowed that his administration would provide full support to the Armed Forces, charging them to remain resolute and uphold discipline.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” he said. “This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe and ensure our citizens live in peace.”