President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, unveiling sweeping measures aimed at combating rising terrorism, banditry and widespread insecurity across the country.
In a statement released from Aso Rock on Wednesday, the President announced an immediate expansion of the nation’s security workforce, authorising the police and the army to recruit thousands of new personnel to strengthen operations in high-risk areas.
PBAT approves massive recruitments
Tinubu approved the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police officers, raising the total to 50,000, and directed the Nigeria Police Force to utilise National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training facilities. Police officers currently attached to VIP security duties are also to undergo a crash retraining programme before being redeployed to critical zones.
The President further authorised the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorist groups hiding in forests across the country. The agency has also been directed to recruit more personnel to tighten surveillance and operations in remote regions.
Describing the situation as a national emergency, Tinubu said the government is taking decisive action to put more “boots on the ground” as communities continue to face violent attacks. He urged citizens to participate actively in safeguarding their environments by remaining vigilant and reporting suspicious activities.
The President commended security agencies for the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, assuring Nigerians that ongoing efforts to free other abducted victims—including students of the Catholic school in Niger State—will not relent.
Tinubu also appealed to the National Assembly to begin reviewing legislation that would allow states interested in establishing their own police outfits to do so. He urged state governments to reinforce security around boarding schools and encouraged religious centres in vulnerable areas to seek regular protection during services.
Addressing the persistent clashes between herders and farmers, the President emphasised that the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development is key to ending open grazing and reducing conflict. He encouraged herder associations to embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons.
PBAT condoles with the bereaved
Tinubu expressed condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe and Kwara States, and paid tribute to military personnel who have lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
Reassuring Nigerians of his administration’s resolve, Tinubu warned that those attempting to undermine national security should not mistake government restraint for weakness.
He called on citizens to stay calm, united and vigilant, stressing that victory over insecurity would only be possible through collective effort.
See statement below …
