President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and directed the Nigerian Army and Police to launch a large-scale recruitment drive to bolster national security.
In a statement released to POLITICS NIGERIA on Wednesday evening, the President instructed the Police to use National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps across the country as training centers for new recruits.
“In view of the emerging security situation, I have declared a nationwide security emergency and approved additional recruitment into the Armed Forces. The police will recruit an extra 20,000 officers, bringing their total strength to 50,000,” Tinubu said.
The President also ordered that officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties undergo crash training before redeployment to security-challenged areas.
Tinubu directed the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy trained forest guards to combat terrorists and bandits in forested regions and to recruit additional personnel to ensure that no area serves as a safe haven for criminals.
“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by putting more boots on the ground, particularly in vulnerable areas. Every Nigerian has a role to play in securing the nation,” he said.
He commended security agencies for their efforts in rescuing 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, promising continued operations to free remaining hostages, including students in Niger State.
Tinubu called on the Armed Forces to maintain discipline and integrity, emphasizing that there must be no compromise, collusion, or negligence. He also pledged federal support to state governments that establish security outfits to protect their citizens.
He urged the National Assembly to review laws to allow states to create state police where necessary and advised religious institutions and schools in remote areas to seek adequate security.
Addressing herder-farmer conflicts, the President encouraged herders to adopt ranching, surrender illegal weapons, and collaborate with authorities to ensure sustainable livestock farming and national peace.
Tinubu expressed condolences to families affected by attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States and paid tribute to fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
He warned that attempts to test the government’s resolve should not mistake restraint for weakness, urging Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies. “We are in this fight together, and together we shall win,” he said.