President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, directing the Nigerian Police and Armed Forces to bolster their personnel in response to escalating insecurity across the country.
In a statement released from the Statehouse on Wednesday, Tinubu authorised the police to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, increasing the planned intake to 50,000.
The president also permitted the use of National Youth Service Corps camps as temporary training facilities for the recruits, highlighting the urgency of the measures.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasised that the police and military are authorised to recruit more personnel immediately, with officers being withdrawn from VIP guard duties to undergo intensive training for deployment to security-challenged areas.
The president instructed the Department of State Services to deploy trained forest guards to target terrorists and bandits operating in Nigeria’s forests, alongside recruiting additional personnel to enhance these operations.
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas,” he said.
Tinubu commended security forces for their recent rescue operations, including the release of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, promising continued efforts to free students still held hostage in Niger State.
He also honoured soldiers who lost their lives in recent operations, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, recognising their bravery and sacrifice.
The president urged the National Assembly to review existing laws to enable states to establish local policing where necessary.
He called on local authorities and religious institutions to implement stricter security measures to protect citizens, particularly in schools, mosques, and churches in vulnerable regions.
“States should rethink establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security,” Tinubu said, stressing the importance of coordinated protective measures.
Highlighting the government’s Livestock Ministry initiative, the president urged herders to end open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and adopt ranching as a sustainable solution to farmer-herder conflicts.
“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony,” he added, noting that the federal government will collaborate with states to address this issue.
Tinubu encouraged Nigerians not to succumb to fear, assuring them of the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and maintaining national unity.
He emphasised cooperation between the public and security agencies, urging citizens to report suspicious activities to aid law enforcement efforts.
The president reinforced that all Nigerians have a role in restoring peace and stability, stressing collective responsibility in confronting insecurity.
“Together we shall win,” Tinubu declared, expressing confidence in the armed forces and the nation’s ability to overcome current challenges.
He concluded by invoking blessings for Nigeria and the country’s security personnel, urging continued vigilance and support for military and police operations.
The nationwide emergency highlights the federal government’s resolve to tackle increasing violence and instability, marking a decisive step in addressing security challenges throughout Nigeria.
