President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restoring peace, strengthening national security, and expanding economic opportunity.
He also warned terrorists and other enemies of state to have a rethink or meet their waterloo in the not too distant future.
President Tinubu said this Sunday at the memorial of former Kogi state Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, in Lokoja.
Represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the president noted that the government was fully mobilised to hunt down the enemies of state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian.
A statement by the media aide to the minister, Rabiu Ibrahim, quoted Idris as conveying the president’s message to the event.
“Yet, we are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve. Let me be unequivocal: the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government. We have therefore taken decisive action.
“The recent Declaration of a State of Emergency on national security underscores the gravity with which we view this challenge. This is not a mere proclamation; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity.
“As part of this, we have immediately begun the process of expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies in numbers, in advanced weaponry, and in intelligence capabilities. We will hunt the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian.
“But to secure our people permanently, we must reform the very architecture of our security. This is why my administration is courageously championing the establishment of State Police. We believe that a more localised, community-sensitive security structure is vital to complement the valiant efforts of our national forces. It will also boost employment in the grassroots. This is a bold, necessary constitutional step, one that requires our collective will, and we are committed to seeing it through,” he said.
The president further said the federal government was also intensifying international diplomacy to correct false narratives misrepresenting Nigeria’s religious harmony and peaceful coexistence.
