President Bola Tinubu Unveils Comprehensive Security Strategy
President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration is fully mobilised to tackle the growing threats of terrorism, banditry, and other subversive elements that are undermining national security. His address at a memorial event for former Kogi State Governor, Abubakar Audu, highlighted the gravity of the current situation and the need for urgent action.
Tinubu stated that restoring peace, strengthening national security, and expanding economic opportunities remain the top priorities of his administration. He emphasized that the recent declaration of a state of emergency on national security was not just symbolic rhetoric but a signal of renewed commitment to the expansion of security manpower, modernized intelligence, and strategic reforms.
He also mentioned the importance of establishing State Police as a community-sensitive solution to local threats. This move, he said, would not only boost employment in the grassroots but also complement the efforts of national forces.
The president assured that his government is intensifying international diplomacy to correct false narratives about Nigeria’s religious harmony and peaceful coexistence. He also outlined plans to modernize the livestock farming framework to turn areas of historical tension into engines of economic development and peaceful coexistence.
The Legacy of Prince Abubakar Audu
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Audu, Tinubu described him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He highlighted Audu’s foresight in shaping the governance foundation of Kogi State and contributing to Nigeria’s transition into stable civilian rule. The president praised Audu’s leadership, stating that it was not driven by personal ambition but by a commitment to state-building and institutional strength.
He noted that Audu viewed leadership as a measure of impact, not applause. Tinubu expressed his commitment to honouring Audu’s legacy through concrete actions, not just words.
Addressing the Origins of Terrorism
The presidency alleged that the ideological foundations and early operational cells of Boko Haram took root during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration due to what it described as weak or indecisive action at the time. It stressed that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to securing every inch of Nigerian territory by confronting terrorists with strength, unity, and an integrated national security approach.
A presidential spokesperson, Sunday Dare, dismissed recent remarks by Obasanjo and other individuals, suggesting that the Tinubu administration was “unable to protect Nigerians.” He urged all patriots to join hands with the government rather than raising alarms.
Dare described such comments as hypocritical, misleading, and dangerous, emphasizing that Nigeria is currently battling a multi-layered terrorist ecosystem involving internationally recognized terror groups, ISIS-linked and al-Qaeda-linked networks across the Sahel, violent extremist cells posing as bandits, cross-border terror gangs exploiting porous borders, and ideological insurgents operating in ungoverned spaces.
Security Measures in Kano
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Jibrin Barau, issued a directive to security agencies to immediately halt the incursions of armed bandits into Tsanyawa and Shanono local government areas of Kano State. He condemned the repeated attacks and demanded that security forces intensify operations across the affected corridors.
Barau emphasized that the federal and state authorities would not permit criminal gangs on the run from neighboring regions to infiltrate and destabilize peaceful communities in Kano, stressing that the protection of life and property remained paramount.
Recent Attacks and Calls for Unity
Again, suspected bandits struck in Eruku, kidnapping one person. The incident caused tension among residents, with the attackers armed with cutlasses and AK-47 rifles. A senior police officer confirmed the attack and stated that efforts were underway to rescue the victim.
Former governor of Akwa Ibom State, Udom Emmanuel, called for a national concerted effort in the battle against insecurity, urging Nigerians to ignore all biases in order to solve the challenges currently facing the country. He encouraged the president to continue pursuing visions that would help the country overcome its current challenges and achieve good governance.
Rescues and Demands for Better Funding
Ndume hailed the army for rescuing 12 abducted girls and demanded better funding for the military. He praised the courage and professionalism of the troops and urged them to remain steadfast in combating the insurgents.
NAF airstrikes foiled an ISWAP attack in Chibok and destroyed a bandit enclave in Katsina. The Nigerian Air Force carried out coordinated strikes, neutralizing scores of fleeing insurgents and degrading their networks.
Cleric Dr. Bulus Yohanna charged both the federal and Niger State governments to expedite action on the recovery of students, pupils, and teachers abducted from a school in Agwara. Over 100 parents staged a peaceful protest to demand the rescue of their children.
Troops killed four militia members and recovered weapons in Taraba after foiling an armed militia attack. The army’s swift response prevented further deterioration of the security situation.
