President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and approved a major recruitment drive aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s defence and internal security. The announcement, issued on Wednesday from the State House, comes in response to rising insecurity across several parts of the country.
In the statement, the President authorised both the police and the army to recruit more personnel immediately. The police will take in an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total intake to 50,000 nationwide. He also granted approval for police authorities to use various National Youth Service Corps camps as training depots to accelerate the process.
Tinubu directed that officers withdrawn from VIP escort duties should undergo crash training in preparation for deployment to troubled areas. He also empowered the Department of State Services to deploy forest guards already trained to combat terrorists and bandits hiding in the nation’s forests. The agency has also been asked to recruit more men for forest operations.
Calling the situation a national emergency, the President urged Nigerians to support ongoing operations. He commended security agencies for the recent rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara, and called for sustained efforts to free students of Catholic School in Niger State and others still held hostage.
Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their courage and sacrifice, stressing that this is a challenging moment for the nation and its military institutions. He charged the leadership and rank and file to restore peace across operational theatres and to uphold discipline and integrity.
The President also pledged federal support for states that have established local security outfits to protect residents. He urged the National Assembly to review laws that would allow states that want state police to establish them.
He advised states to reconsider placing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security and called on religious institutions to seek police protection for gatherings, especially in vulnerable regions.
Tinubu highlighted the creation of the Livestock Ministry as part of efforts to address clashes between herders and farmers. He urged herder groups to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal arms. According to him, sustainable livestock farming and national harmony can only be achieved through cooperation between the federal and state governments.
He expressed sympathy for families who lost loved ones in recent attacks across Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara states. He paid tribute to soldiers who died in the line of duty, including Brigadier General Musa Uba.
Tinubu warned those seeking to test the government’s resolve not to mistake restraint for weakness. He assured the public that his administration is determined to keep the country safe.
The President urged citizens to reject fear and despair. He appealed for unity, vigilance, and cooperation with security agencies. According to him, Nigeria can overcome its challenges if citizens stand together with a shared purpose.
“May God continue to bless Nigeria and keep our armed forces safe,” the statement concluded.