June 8 (THEWILL) — President Bola Tinubu has declared the fight against terrorism and insecurity a national duty, calling on Nigerians to actively support security agencies with credible and timely intelligence, while urging citizens to remain vigilant and speak up against suspicious activities across the country.
“The fight against terror is not only a military operation. It is a national duty. Citizens must support our security forces by providing timely, useful information. When you see something, say something. When you know something, report it”, the President said in a message posted on his X handle on Monday.
The Nigerian leader made the appeal while commending members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their courage, commitment, and sacrifices in confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other threats to national security.
Tinubu praised troops and security personnel operating in difficult and dangerous conditions across the country, describing them as the nation’s protective shield against individuals and groups seeking to destabilise communities and undermine peace.
“You stand as a shield between innocent citizens and those who seek to destroy the peace, safety, and dignity of our communities”, the President stated.
Acknowledging the demanding nature of security operations, Tinubu noted that military personnel and other security operatives continue to serve under difficult conditions, often risking their lives in forests, on highways, in the air, at forward operating bases, and within challenging terrains across the country.
According to him, the campaign against insecurity has demanded immense sacrifice from personnel serving on the front lines.
“This fight has not been easy. It has come with pain, pressure, and sacrifice. But your courage has remained firm. Your service is acknowledged. Your sacrifice is honoured. Your country does not take you for granted”, he said.
The President also extended his appreciation to members of the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), intelligence agencies, local security formations, and other institutions contributing to national security efforts.
He further acknowledged the sacrifices made by families of security personnel, noting that many continue to bear emotional burdens associated with long deployments and the uncertainty surrounding operational duties.
“I also acknowledge the families behind the uniform. Many of you have endured long absences, anxious nights, and the emotional cost of duty. Nigeria remembers that sacrifice, too”, he added.
Tinubu paid tribute to security personnel who lost their lives while defending the nation, describing their sacrifices as lasting contributions to the country’s peace and survival.
“We honour those who have paid the supreme price in defence of our country. Their names may not always trend, but their courage lives on in rescued communities, protected families, and the survival of the nation they served”, he noted.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to defeating insecurity, the President declared that Nigeria would not surrender to fear or allow terrorists and criminal elements to shape the nation’s identity.
“Nigeria will not surrender to fear. We will not allow terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, or violent extremists to define who we are as a people. Their violence is not our identity. Their hatred does not represent Nigerians of any faith, creed, or community”, he stated.
The President Tinubu expressed appreciation to security personnel for their dedication and vigilance, while praying for their continued safety in the discharge of their duties.
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