The President made the declaration on Tuesday as he praised the Armed Forces and other security agencies for the operation that led to the death of Ibrahim Bastuji, a wanted bandit commander linked to a series of attacks, kidnappings and violent activities in Kogi and neighbouring states.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the operation as a major breakthrough in the fight against insecurity, noting that Bastuji had been responsible for terrorising communities and causing widespread suffering among residents.
According to the President, the removal of the notorious criminal would bring relief to affected communities and strengthen public confidence in ongoing efforts to restore security.
“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals.
“Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place.
“This success reflects the renewed determination of our security forces to secure every inch of our land,” the President said.
Tinubu also applauded security personnel for the successful rescue of Hajiya Amina Abubakar, widow of former Chief of Defence Information, Maj. Gen. Rabe Abubakar (retd.), who was abducted by bandits in Katsina State.
The rescue operation came after reports that the retired senior military officer died while being held in captivity by his abductors.
Describing the mission as a reflection of the courage and professionalism of the nation’s security forces, the President expressed relief over her safe return.
“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians.
“I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation.
“We owe a debt of gratitude to our troops who risk their lives daily to keep us safe.”
The President assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to strengthen the capabilities of the Armed Forces through improved resources, training and operational support to tackle banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.
He also urged members of the public to support security agencies with credible and timely intelligence to aid ongoing operations.
The military successes come amid intensified efforts by security forces to combat criminal gangs operating across parts of the North-Central and North-West regions, where cases of kidnapping and banditry have remained a major concern.
Meanwhile, the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has expressed sadness over the death of Maj. Gen. Abubakar (retd.), while criticising the Federal Government’s handling of the country’s security challenges.
In a statement released in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Muhammed Ishaq, the party described the late officer’s death in captivity as a tragic indication of what it termed the government’s failure to adequately protect citizens.
According to the opposition party, the circumstances surrounding his death were deeply troubling and highlighted the severity of the nation’s security crisis.