- He further authorized the agency to recruit additional personnel to reinforce security operations
- Tinubu commended the military for their courage and sacrifice
- He concluded by urging citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies
In response to escalating insecurity across Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday announced a nationwide security emergency, directing the military and police to expand their personnel.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the President also called on the National Assembly to review existing laws to allow states that wish to establish state police to do so.
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The President, in a statement he personally signed, instructed the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy all trained forest guards immediately to eliminate terrorists and bandits hiding in the nation’s forests.
He further authorised the agency to recruit additional personnel to reinforce security operations.
Tinubu explained that the police would recruit 20,000 more officers, bringing the total to 50,000, while existing National Youth Service Corps camps would serve as training centres.
Officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties will undergo crash training to enhance operational efficiency in high-risk areas.
“This is a national emergency. We are deploying more boots on the ground, particularly in security-challenged regions. Every Nigerian has a role to play in securing our nation,” the President said.
He lauded security agencies for their efforts in rescuing 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara, adding that efforts continue to free other hostages.
Tinubu commended the military for their courage and sacrifice, emphasizing the need for discipline, integrity, and zero tolerance for negligence or collusion.
The President encouraged states to reconsider establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate protection and urged religious institutions to maintain police security during gatherings.
He also called on herder associations to end open grazing, surrender illegal weapons, and adopt ranching for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony.
Expressing condolences to victims of recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara, Tinubu warned criminals against testing the government’s resolve.
He concluded by urging citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and stand united in their efforts to safeguard the nation.
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