President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency, unveiling sweeping measures aimed at tackling Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, including unprecedented recruitment drives across the Armed Forces, Police, and intelligence services.

 

In a national statement issued from the State House, the President authorised the recruitment of an additional 20,000 police personnel, raising the number approved for the year to 50,000 officers. He also directed the Nigerian Army to commence fresh recruitment to reinforce manpower in major operational theatres across the country.

 

To fast-track police training, Tinubu approved the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training depots, complementing ongoing upgrades of police colleges nationwide. Police personnel recently withdrawn from VIP protection assignments are to undergo rapid retraining before redeployment to high-risk zones.

 

The President further mandated the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to dislodge terrorists and bandits sheltering in forests. The DSS is also expected to recruit additional personnel to strengthen security coverage in forested regions.

 

“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground,” Tinubu said. “The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation.”

 

Tinubu commended security agencies for securing the recent release of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 abducted worshippers in Kwara State, assuring Nigerians that rescue operations for kidnapped students and other victims would remain ongoing.

 

He also paid tribute to the Armed Forces, praising their courage and urging unwavering dedication. “There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence,” he said. “The Nigerian people are counting on you, and this administration will provide the support you need to succeed.”

 

Calling on the National Assembly, Tinubu urged lawmakers to begin reviewing legislation that would allow states desiring state police to formally establish them. He also advised state governments to strengthen security around boarding schools, and encouraged religious institutions in vulnerable areas to maintain close collaboration with security agencies.

 

Addressing persistent farmer–herder conflicts, the President reiterated that the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development was designed to deliver long-term solutions. He appealed to herder associations to embrace ranching, discontinue open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons.

 

Tinubu extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, and honoured fallen military personnel, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who died in active service.

 

“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” he warned. “This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe and ensure our citizens live in peace.”

 

He urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and united in confronting national security threats. “We are in this fight together, and together we shall win,” he said.

 

The President concluded with prayers for the nation and for the protection of members of the Armed Forces.