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In response to the attacks and abductions carried out by gunmen and suspected terrorists in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday announced a nationwide security emergency.
Tinubu also directed fresh recruitment into both the Nigerian Armed Forces and the police.
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces.
“By this declaration, the police and the army are authorised to recruit more personnel. The police will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total to 50,000,” he said in a statement he personally signed.
Tinubu noted that he had earlier approved the upgrade of police training facilities across the country and further authorised the use of selected National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as training centres.
He added that officers being withdrawn from VIP security assignments are expected to undergo “crash training” before deployment to areas experiencing heightened security threats.
‘Flush Out Terrorists’
The President also authorised the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy all trained forest guards to dislodge terrorists and bandits hiding in forested regions.
“The agency also has my directive to recruit more men to man the forests. There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil.
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck.
“As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation,” he stated.
‘No Compromise’
Tinubu commended security agencies for their coordinated efforts in rescuing the 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and the 38 worshippers in Kwara State.
He assured that his administration remains committed to securing the release of the remaining Catholic school students in Niger State and other Nigerians in captivity.
“To the leadership and rank and file of our Armed Forces, I commend your courage and your sacrifice. This is a challenging moment for our nation and for the military institution itself.
“I charge you to remain resolute, to restore peace across all theatres of operation, and to uphold the highest standards of discipline and integrity.
“There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence. The Nigerian people are counting on you, and this administration will provide the support you need to succeed.
“In addition, our administration will support state governments that have set up security outfits to safeguard their people from the terrorists bent on disrupting our national peace,” he said.
Law Review
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing existing laws to allow states interested in establishing state police to do so.
He also urged states to reconsider operating boarding schools in remote locations without adequate security and advised worship centres to consistently seek police protection, especially in high-risk areas.
“Our administration created the Livestock Ministry to address the persistent clashes between herders and farmers. I call on all herder associations to take advantage of it, end open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons.
“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony. The Federal Government, in collaboration with the states, will work with you to solve this problem, once and for all,” the statement read.
He expressed sympathy to families who lost loved ones in recent attacks across Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, and paid tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness. This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe and ensure our citizens live in peace.
“Fellow Compatriots, I urge you not to give in to fear and never succumb to 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.
“I urge all Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant. Report suspicious activities. Cooperate with security agencies. We are in this fight together, and together we shall win,” he added.
Tinubu’s announcement follows growing anxiety over insecurity nationwide, including the killing of at least five people in Kebbi and Kwara, and the kidnapping of over 300 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS), Maga, and St Mary’s Catholic School, Papiri, in Kebbi and Niger States.
