In response to the escalating security challenges confronting Nigeria, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency and directed the Nigerian Police Force and Armed Forces to significantly expand their personnel to strengthen national safety.
In a statement from the Statehouse, the President announced that the Nigerian Police would recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total planned intake to 50,000. He also authorised the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training facilities for the new recruits.
The President stated, “Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have declared a nationwide security emergency and ordered an expansion of our Armed Forces.
The police and the army are now authorised to recruit additional personnel. The officers being redeployed from VIP duties will undergo intensive crash training to enhance operational efficiency when deployed to security-challenged areas.”
The President further empowered the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy trained forest guards to neutralise terrorists and bandits operating within Nigeria’s forests and ordered increased recruitment to strengthen these critical operations.
“Fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency. We are deploying more boots on the ground, especially in vulnerable regions. Every Nigerian has a role to play in securing our nation,” Tinubu emphasized.
He commended the security agencies for recent successes, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and assured citizens of continued efforts to free students still held hostage in Niger State. He also honoured the bravery of soldiers who have made the ultimate sacrifice, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
The President called on the National Assembly to review existing laws to allow states to establish state policing where necessary. He also urged local authorities, mosques, churches, and educational institutions to strengthen security measures.
“States should carefully reconsider establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate protection. Places of worship should always coordinate with security agencies to safeguard congregants in vulnerable regions,” he stated.
Addressing the persistent farmer-herder conflicts, President Tinubu highlighted the government’s Livestock Ministry initiative, urging herders to end open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and adopt ranching as the sustainable path forward.
“Ranching is now the way forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony. The Federal Government, in partnership with the states, will work with herder associations to resolve this challenge once and for all,” he added.
President Tinubu concluded by urging Nigerians to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and not yield to fear.
“Report suspicious activities. Work together with security forces. We are united in this fight, and together, we shall prevail. May God continue to bless Nigeria and protect our armed forces,” he affirmed.
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