By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, outlining sweeping measures aimed at confronting the escalating wave of terrorist attacks, banditry, and violent assaults in several northern states. The announcement was contained in two official statements issued from the State House, Aso Rock, on Wednesday.
The President authorized the immediate recruitment of thousands of additional personnel into both the Nigerian Army and the Police Service. According to the declaration, the police and military are now empowered to begin large-scale recruitment, with the police alone set to enlist an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total number of recent security recruits to 50,000.
Tinubu also granted the Department of State Services (DSS) full clearance to deploy all trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and armed groups hiding within forested regions across the country. The agency has also been asked to recruit even more men to strengthen surveillance and counter-terrorism operations.
In the complementary address to the nation, President Tinubu called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing existing laws to empower states that wish to establish their own police forces. He also urged states to reconsider the placement of boarding schools in remote areas lacking proper security, noting that mosques and churches in vulnerable areas must coordinate closely with police to ensure protection during congregational activities.
The President highlighted his administration’s creation of the Livestock Ministry, which he said is intended to resolve the enduring clashes between farmers and herders. He appealed to herder associations to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons as part of national efforts to restore peace and promote sustainable agriculture.
Tinubu expressed deep sympathy to families affected by recent attacks across Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, acknowledging the tragic loss of lives during assaults on soft targets. He paid special tribute to military personnel who died in service, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, describing them as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.
He commended security agencies for their recent successes, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, while assuring the nation that efforts continue to rescue remaining victims still held hostage by terrorist groups.
As part of urgent reforms, officers previously assigned to VIP protection are to be withdrawn and subjected to intensive crash retraining before being deployed to high-risk areas. The police have also been authorized to use NYSC camps as temporary training depots to accommodate the increased recruitment drive.
Tinubu emphasized that this period demands unity and collective effort, urging citizens to cooperate with security agencies, remain vigilant, and report suspicious activities.
Addressing the armed forces directly, President Tinubu praised their courage, discipline, and sacrifice during what he described as a defining moment for Nigeria’s military. He reaffirmed that his administration will provide all necessary support to ensure their success.
He also pledged federal support for states that have set up their own security outfits to protect communities from terrorist threats.
“This is a national emergency,” the President declared, noting that Nigeria must stand together to preserve peace, freedom, and national unity.
