November 26, (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, declared a nationwide security emergency and directed an immediate scale-up of personnel across key security institutions, in an unprecedented move aimed at curbing rising terrorist and bandit activities across the country.
The President in a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, directed the Nigeria Police Force and the Armed Forces to embark on accelerated recruitment exercises to boost manpower and strengthen frontline operations. The police, he said, will enroll an additional 20,000 officers, raising the total number of new recruits to 50,000.
To fast-track training, Tinubu approved the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps nationwide as temporary police training depots. He also directed that officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties undergo crash reorientation programmes before deployment to high-risk zones.
The President further ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy trained forest guards to dislodge terrorists and bandits hiding in forested areas, while also authorising the agency to recruit additional personnel.
“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation”, he declared.
President Tinubu commended the security agencies for the successful rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, assuring that operations to free remaining abductees—including students of the Catholic school in Niger State—would be intensified.
Addressing the military, President Tinubu praised their courage and sacrifice during what he described as a difficult moment for the country and the Armed Forces. He urged them to restore peace across all theatres of operation while upholding discipline, integrity, and professionalism.
“There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence. The Nigerian people are counting on you”, he warned.
The President also reaffirmed federal support for state-run security outfits and called on the National Assembly to begin the process of reviewing laws to enable states that seek state police to legally establish them.
He advised state governments to reconsider the siting of boarding schools in remote areas that lack adequate security, and urged religious institutions—especially in vulnerable regions—to work closely with security agencies when organising gatherings.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to resolving long-standing herder–farmer conflicts, the President appealed to cattle rearers to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal arms. He referenced the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development as a crucial vehicle for reform and lasting peace.
The President expressed deep sympathy to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe and Kwara states, and paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness. This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe”, he declared.
The President urged Nigerians to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and report suspicious activities, stressing that unity and resilience were vital in overcoming current challenges.
“Let us stand together in purpose and strength to defend our freedom and values. We are in this fight together, and together we shall win”, Tinubu said.
Felix Ifijeh is a journalist with years of professional reporting experience. Known for his keen news sense, compelling storytelling and commitment to accurate, impactful reporting, he has built a reputation for turning leads into clear, engaging, and well-structured reports that resonate with readers. His work reflects deep newsroom experience and a commitment to accurate, impactful journalism.
