President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency, directing the Nigerian Police and Armed Forces to recruit additional personnel to address escalating insecurity across the country.
In a statement issued from the Statehouse, the president instructed the police to recruit 20,000 new officers, raising the total planned intake to 50,000. He also authorised the use of National Youth Service Corps camps as temporary training facilities for recruits.
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces,” Tinubu said.
The president directed that officers withdrawn from VIP guard duties undergo crash training to prepare them for deployment to security-challenged areas. He also gave the Department of State Services authority to deploy trained forest guards to combat terrorists and bandits operating in forests.
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation,” Tinubu stated.
The president commended security agencies for rescuing 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, and pledged continued efforts to free students still held hostage in Niger State. He also praised soldiers who have lost their lives in recent operations, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to review laws to enable states to establish state police, and urged local authorities and religious institutions to strengthen security measures.
He also highlighted the government’s Livestock Ministry initiative, urging herders to end open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and adopt ranching to prevent farmer-herder clashes.
“States should rethink establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security. Mosques and churches should constantly seek police and other security protection when they gather for prayers, especially in vulnerable areas,” he said.
The president assured Nigerians of the government’s commitment to safeguarding citizens, ensuring national unity, and supporting security forces.
“Report suspicious activities. Cooperate with security agencies. We are in this fight together, and together we shall win. May God continue to bless Nigeria and keep our armed forces safe,” the statement concluded.