President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, responding to rising cases of mass kidnappings, banditry, and violent attacks across several states. He ordered a major expansion of Nigeria’s security forces, directing the Armed Forces and the Nigeria Police Force to begin immediate large-scale recruitment.
Massive Recruitment and Training Overhaul
Tinubu authorized the police to recruit 20,000 additional officers, raising their total intake to 50,000. He also approved the use of NYSC camps as temporary police training depots to speed up deployment.
Furthermore, officers currently assigned to VIP guard duties will return for crash retraining before joining operations in high-risk areas. Tinubu explained that this move will place “more boots on the ground” where communities need urgent protection.
Forest Guards Activated for Direct Action
The President also empowered the DSS to activate its full forest security system. He instructed the agency to deploy all trained forest guards immediately, ordering them to hunt down criminals hiding in forest corridors. Tinubu further encouraged the DSS to recruit new personnel to reinforce the effort.
Urgent Security Measures Across States
According to Tinubu, the government is taking these actions because “the situation is a national emergency.” He urged citizens to report suspicious activities, stressing that public involvement strengthens security operations.
He also commended security forces for recent breakthroughs, including the rescue of abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara. The President assured Nigerians that the government will continue efforts to rescue the remaining hostages, especially students still held in Niger State.
Support for States and Security Reforms
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws that will allow states interested in establishing state police to do so. He also warned governors against operating boarding schools in remote, unsecured areas and advised religious institutions to work closely with security agencies during gatherings.
He reaffirmed his stance on resolving farmer-herder conflict, pointing to the new Ministry of Livestock Development. Tinubu urged herder groups to embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons, insisting that ranching “is now the path forward.”
A Call for Unity and Vigilance
Tinubu expressed sympathy to families affected by recent attacks across Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara. He also paid tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
The President ended with a firm message: “Do not give in to fear. Work with security agencies. We are in this fight together, and together we will win.”
