President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency in response to the rising wave of insecurity across the country, directing the Nigerian Army, Police, DSS, and other security agencies to embark on an unprecedented recruitment and deployment exercise immediately.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday evening, the President authorized the Nigerian Police Force to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total number of new police personnel to 50,000. He also approved the use of all National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps nationwide as temporary training centres.
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces,” Tinubu said.
He further directed that police officers withdrawn from VIP escort duties undergo accelerated retraining before being deployed to high-risk areas.
The President also empowered the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy newly trained forest guards to flush out terrorists, bandits, and criminal elements hiding in forests across the country. The DSS has also been authorized to recruit additional personnel for this purpose.
“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground,” he said, urging citizens to support security agencies and remain vigilant.
Tinubu commended security operatives for the successful rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 abducted worshippers in Kwara State. He assured that efforts are ongoing to rescue other abducted persons, including students of the Catholic School in Niger State.
The President charged the Armed Forces to remain resolute and uncompromising, warning against negligence or collusion.
He also urged the National Assembly to begin reviewing legislation that would allow states to establish state police where necessary. Additionally, he cautioned states against situating boarding schools in isolated areas without adequate security.
Speaking on the persistent farmer-herder crisis, Tinubu called on herders to embrace ranching and comply with the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development, adding that illegal weapons must be surrendered.
He expressed condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States, and paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” Tinubu warned. “This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe.”
The President ended his address by calling on Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and united.
