PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that his administration will not allow insecurity across the country to undermine its efforts at protecting vulnerable Nigerians, as he pledged renewed action to confront security challenges nationwide.
News Point Nigeria reports that the President made this known on Sunday in Lagos while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his residence during the Eid-al-Fitr celebration, in what turned into a high-level engagement on national security and economic concerns.
Addressing the gathering, Tinubu described insecurity as the most pressing challenge facing the country, warning that it poses a direct threat to development, progress, and national prosperity.
“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face, and that is the challenge of insecurity in the country,” the President said.
He stressed that his administration is committed to ensuring that Nigerians “collectively share the joy of victory over tyranny,” adding that significant efforts are underway to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
Tinubu revealed that part of his recent engagements abroad focused on securing international support for Nigeria’s security efforts, particularly in the area of modern equipment and intelligence collaboration.
The President disclosed that discussions during his visit to the United Kingdom included security cooperation, noting that he had also held a separate and extensive conversation with Emmanuel Macron.
“I can report to you that yesterday, again, I had a lengthy discussion with French President Emmanuel Macron. They are collaborating with us for equipment and support. I am also making frantic efforts to contact other nations,” Tinubu said.
The President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, had returned to Nigeria on Friday after a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where they were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
During the visit, Tinubu also met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with discussions focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and securing investment agreements.
Beyond security, the President expressed concern over the potential economic impact of global tensions, particularly the crisis in the Middle East, which he said could drive inflation and weaken citizens’ purchasing power.
“We should care more for the vulnerable,” Tinubu stated, noting that labour unions and other groups are likely to demand increased government support as economic pressures mount.
He urged state governors to introduce measures that would cushion the effects of rising energy and transportation costs on citizens.
Tinubu called on governors to remain steadfast in translating their development visions into practical policies that directly improve the lives of Nigerians.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal and state governments in tackling insecurity, urging them to support ongoing efforts to confront criminal elements across the country.
The President also commended Vice President Shettima for his condolence visit to Borno State, assuring residents of enhanced security through the deployment of new technologies.
Speaking on behalf of the governors, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed appreciation to the President for his leadership and interventions across the states.
He congratulated Tinubu on the successful state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as significant in strengthening Nigeria’s relationship with the country.
“Together, we must see that the issue of insecurity comes to an end,” AbdulRazaq said.
He disclosed that discussions on the establishment of state police are ongoing, adding that the Governors’ Forum is working with the National Security Adviser and other stakeholders to develop a legislative framework.
According to him, the proposal would soon be presented to the National Assembly for consideration.
The meeting brought together a broad spectrum of state leaders, including Governors Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Alex Otti (Abia), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Hyacinth Alia (Benue), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), Peter Mbah (Enugu), Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe), and Umar Namadi (Jigawa).
Others in attendance were Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Dikko Umaru Radda (Katsina), Ahmed Usman Ododo (Kogi), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa), Caleb Mufwang (Plateau), Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers), Agbu Keffas (Taraba), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), and Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo).
Also present was the Deputy Governor of Borno State, Umar Usman Kadafur.