February 09, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending terrorism and banditry in Nigeria, assuring citizens that the government will strengthen the nation’s security forces to decisively defeat criminal elements threatening peace and stability.
The President gave the assurance on Monday, February 9, 2026, while delivering his opening remarks at the second edition of the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference on Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development held at the State House, Abuja.
Tinubu said insecurity remains a major concern for leaders across the country, stressing that his government is determined to overcome the challenge through resilience and sustained action.
He emphasized that seven zones of agricultural mechanization are being established to support productivity while security forces are reinforced.
“And I am leaving here again to further find means to strengthen our security forces to defeat terrorism and banditry, that I promise you,” the President said.
Describing terrorism and banditry as alien to Nigeria’s values and culture, Tinubu expressed confidence that the country would ultimately prevail.
“It is what has kept all of us sleepless at night, but I assure you that we will win with determination and resiliency. We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry; it’s not part of our culture, it’s foreign to us,” he said.
The President also noted that persistent insecurity constitutes a serious obstacle to economic development, warning that failure to address it would continue to hamper national growth.
“So, it’s an economic encumbrance if we do not find a solution to it,” Tinubu added.
He commended several state governors for their efforts in supporting national security, singling out the governors of Borno, Katsina, and Kaduna states for their roles in defending freedom and the commonwealth.
On the economy, Tinubu said his administration is focused on strengthening macroeconomic stability through improved revenue generation, stronger public financial management, and enhanced fiscal coordination.
He highlighted that state and local governments now receive more predictable federal allocations, improving their capacity to pay salaries and invest in infrastructure.
“We have prioritized infrastructure development across transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing and irrigation as catalysts for inclusive growth,” the President said.
He further disclosed that the government has expanded social investment and human capital development programmes aimed at improving the welfare of vulnerable Nigerians.
“The Renewed Hope Ward Development Project further demonstrates our commitment to grassroots inclusion through a bottom-up approach to national development,” Tinubu noted, referring to the initiative aimed at empowering 1,000 people in each of Nigeria’s 8,809 wards.
The President also unveiled the Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030, describing it as the next phase of Nigeria’s development journey.
He stated that the plan prioritizes economic diversification, human capital development, and climate resilience, noting that its success depends on effective implementation at the state and local levels
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