President Bola Tinubu has reiterated that restoring peace, strengthening national security, and expanding economic opportunities remain the foremost priorities of his administration. His message was delivered in Lokoja on Sunday during a memorial event honouring the late former Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu. The President was represented by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.
In a statement issued by the Minister’s media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, Idris told attendees that the Federal Government is unwavering in its determination to confront threats to the nation’s stability. He acknowledged recent security setbacks but emphasised that the administration is fully committed to safeguarding Nigerians.
“We are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve. Let me be unequivocal: the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government. We have therefore taken decisive action,” he said.
Idris noted that the recently declared State of Emergency on national security marks a renewed drive to expand manpower, modernise intelligence-gathering, and implement wide-ranging reforms, including advancing the establishment of State Police. According to him, the declaration signals the seriousness with which the government views the issue of the issue of insecurity.
“This is not a mere proclamation; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity. We have immediately begun expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies — in numbers, advanced weaponry, and intelligence capabilities. We will hunt the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore peace to every Nigerian,” Idris said.
He added that restructuring the security framework is essential for long-term stability. The proposed State Police Force, he argued, would bring policing closer to communities, complement federal security agencies and boost grassroots employment. “This is a bold, necessary constitutional step, and we are committed to seeing it through,” he noted.
The Minister also revealed ongoing diplomatic efforts to counter false international narratives about Nigeria’s religious harmony.
Reflecting on the legacy of Prince Abubakar Audu, President Tinubu described the late leader as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. He praised Audu’s vision as the first elected Governor of Kogi State and recalled their political partnership, calling him “a pathfinder” and “a formidable ally”.
The President further highlighted his administration’s reform efforts across key sectors of the economy. Central among them is a new initiative to modernise livestock farming through large-scale ranching schemes, improved animal husbandry, and the integration of the livestock value chain into the national economy. Tinubu described the plan as a way of transforming a historically contentious sector into a source of prosperity.
He also referenced expanded Social Investment Programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens, small businesses,, and young people, alongside major infrastructure projects intended to drive commerce, unify communities,, and spur industrial growth.
The memorial event drew political leaders, family members, and supporters of the late governor, whose legacy Tinubu pledged to uphold.
The President’s renewed focus on security comes amid a surge in kidnappings in northern Nigeria. In recent days, armed groups abducted staff and students from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, shortly after 25 students were seized in Kebbi State. In response, Tinubu cancelled planned trips to South Africa and Angola to oversee security coordination, while several northern states have temporarily closed schools as abductions persist.