Tinubu orders security overhaul, demands end to killings in four states

In a decisive move to curb the rising wave of violence in several Nigerian states, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s national security strategies, demanding immediate action to halt the persistent killings in Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara.

The directive followed an emergency high-level security meeting held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where President Tinubu met with the nation’s security chiefs for over two hours.

The President, visibly disturbed by the continuing violence and loss of lives, issued a stern warning, declaring, “Enough is enough.”

According to the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, who addressed reporters after the closed-door session, the President received detailed briefings on the recent spate of attacks, casualty figures, and the extent of property destruction in the affected states.

“Mr. President gave us the opportunity to present a full report, and it was an exhaustive and frank session,” Ribadu stated. “He gave new instructions and demanded a more aggressive and localized approach to end these security threats.”

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The NSA emphasized that the President had remained actively engaged with the security situation even during his recent official visits to Paris and London, issuing directives remotely and following developments closely.

“Even while he was abroad, he was in constant communication, giving orders and staying up-to-date with developments,” Ribadu added. “He asked us to visit these troubled states, meet with local leaders, and report back—which we have done.”

In his renewed directive, President Tinubu stressed the need to decentralize the security response, calling for deeper collaboration with governors, local government councils, and community leaders.

“Insecurity isn’t just a high-level challenge. It exists at the grassroots. That’s why the President emphasized working closely with local authorities who are more in touch with the people,” the NSA said.

Ribadu noted that the President was deeply concerned about the increasing sophistication of attacks, particularly the use of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and assaults on remote, ungoverned territories.

“The President is committed to restoring peace and has given clear orders. We must intensify efforts to reclaim vulnerable communities and secure every inch of the country,” he concluded.

The meeting was attended by top military commanders, the Inspector General of Police, heads of the intelligence community, and other senior government officials.

The Presidential directive marks one of the strongest signals yet of the administration’s resolve to tackle Nigeria’s complex security challenges head-on.

Nigerians are hopeful that the renewed strategy will bring relief to regions ravaged by conflict and restore a sense of safety to everyday life.