President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency in response to escalating attacks on civilians and security forces across Nigeria.
In a statement issued today, the President authorized the police and the army to recruit additional personnel. The police are set to recruit 20,000 more officers, bringing their total strength to 50,000. Selected National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps will also be used as training depots to accelerate the induction of new recruits.
President Tinubu directed officers withdrawn from VIP guard duties to undergo crash training before deployment to security-challenged areas. The Department of State Services (DSS) has been tasked to immediately deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits operating in the nation’s forests, with a directive to recruit more personnel to strengthen these efforts.
“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in vulnerable areas,” Tinubu said. “All hands must be on deck. Nigerians should actively participate in securing the nation.”
The President also commended security agencies for their efforts in recent operations, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State. He pledged continued support for the recovery of students still held hostage in Niger State and other locations.
Addressing the military, Tinubu emphasized discipline, integrity, and dedication, urging officers to restore peace across all areas of operation without compromise. He also assured support for state governments establishing local security outfits and called on the National Assembly to review laws that would allow states to establish state police.
On the issue of herder-farmer conflicts, Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to ending open grazing through ranching and called on herder associations to surrender illegal weapons and cooperate with state and federal authorities.
The President paid tribute to security personnel who have lost their lives in recent attacks, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, and urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and united in the fight against insecurity.
“Those who seek to test our resolve should not mistake our restraint for weakness. Together, we shall secure our nation and preserve our union,” he said.
