President Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency and ordered the recruitment of an additional 20,000 officers into the Nigerian Police Force as part of a decisive strategy to tackle rising insurgency, banditry, and kidnappings across the country.
In a statement personally signed and issued by State House, Tinubu emphasized the urgent need to strengthen the nation’s security apparatus.
The announcement also authorized the Department of State Services to deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits hiding in forested areas.
“The police will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total to 50,000.”
“There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” Tinubu stated.
The President further revealed his administration’s intention to support the National Assembly in creating laws that would allow states to establish their own police forces.
He reaffirmed his commitment to ending the persistent clashes between herders and farmers, stressing that ranching would replace open grazing nationwide.
Tinubu commended security agencies for their recent operations that led to the release of kidnapped schoolgirls in Kebbi and worshippers in Kwara State, while urging all Nigerians to cooperate in securing the nation.
“This is a national emergency, and we are deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas.”
“Our armed forces and police must uphold the highest standards of discipline and integrity. The Nigerian people are counting on you,” he said.
The President also called on religious institutions and schools in remote areas to seek adequate security measures and warned that those attempting to challenge the government’s resolve should not mistake restraint for weakness.
