March 23, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to confront insecurity, unveiling a renewed strategy anchored on international partnerships following his recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
Speaking on Sunday at his Lagos residence during an Eid-el-Fitr gathering with Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors, the President said his engagements abroad focused significantly on securing modern security equipment and operational support for Nigeria.
Tinubu disclosed that he had sustained high-level discussions with Emmanuel Macron, noting that France had indicated willingness to collaborate with Nigeria in providing critical security assistance.
“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face, and that is the challenge of insecurity in the country”, Tinubu said, stressing that insecurity remains a major threat to national development and economic growth.
He added that his administration was expanding diplomatic contacts to strengthen security networks and attract support from multiple countries, particularly in intelligence, training and equipment.
The President and First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, returned on Friday from a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where they were hosted by Charles III and Camilla. Tinubu also held talks with British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, to strengthen bilateral relations.
Beyond security, the President warned that the ongoing Middle East crisis could worsen inflation and reduce purchasing power, urging state governments to introduce measures to cushion the impact on citizens, particularly in energy and transportation.
“We should care more for the vulnerable”, he said, noting that labour unions and other stakeholders may increase pressure on government due to the economic implications of the crisis.
Tinubu further called on governors to remain focused on translating policies into tangible benefits for citizens, while supporting efforts to eliminate criminal activities across the country.
He also commended Vice President Shettima for his recent condolence visit to Borno State, assuring residents of enhanced protection through the deployment of advanced security technologies.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, lauded the President’s leadership and described the UK visit as a landmark engagement that has strengthened Nigeria’s international standing.
He noted that the visit—the first of its kind in 37 years—signalled a renewed phase of cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with investment opportunities already emerging from the engagements.
AbdulRazaq also revealed that discussions on the establishment of state police were advancing, with the NGF set to submit a framework document to the National Assembly for legislative consideration.
The meeting brought together governors from across the federation, underscoring a unified commitment to addressing Nigeria’s security and economic challenges through coordinated national and subnational efforts.
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