Tinubu promises tougher security measures, reaffirms commitment to vulnerable citizens

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to intensify efforts to combat insecurity across Nigeria, declaring that rising security challenges will not derail government initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.

Speaking on Sunday at his Lagos residence during an Eid-el-Fitr gathering with Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors, the President said national security remained a top priority in his recent engagements abroad, particularly during his state visit to the United Kingdom.

Tinubu emphasized that insecurity poses a direct threat to development, prosperity, and national progress, stressing the need for collective action to overcome it.

“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face, and that is the challenge of insecurity in the country,” the President said. “I am making all efforts to ensure that we collectively share the joy of victory over tyranny. Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity.”

The President disclosed that discussions during his visit to the UK focused significantly on strengthening Nigeria’s security capacity through international partnerships, including the acquisition of modern equipment and operational support.

He further revealed ongoing diplomatic engagements with global leaders, including Emmanuel Macron, to bolster Nigeria’s security architecture.

“I had a lengthy discussion with President Macron. They are collaborating with us on equipment and support. I am also making frantic efforts to contact other nations,” he stated.

President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu had returned to Nigeria on Friday after a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where they were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. The President also held high-level talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

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Addressing economic concerns, Tinubu warned that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could exacerbate inflationary pressures globally, affecting Nigeria’s purchasing power, particularly in energy and transportation sectors. He urged state governors to implement policies and incentives that would cushion the impact on citizens.

“We should care more for the vulnerable. The Middle East crisis will spike inflation and affect purchasing power. Labour unions and others will be seeking more support due to the impact,” he said.

The President also commended Vice President Shettima for his recent condolence visit to Borno State, assuring residents of enhanced protection through the deployment of advanced technology.

He called on governors to remain focused and resilient in translating their development plans into actionable programmes, while also supporting federal efforts to defeat criminal elements threatening national stability.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq praised the President for his leadership and the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that the UK state visit marked a significant milestone in Nigeria’s diplomatic relations.

“On behalf of my colleagues, we congratulate Your Excellency on the successful state visit. It is bold, historic, and signals a new phase in Nigeria’s relationship with the United Kingdom,” he said.

AbdulRazaq added that discussions on the establishment of state police were progressing, with contributions from the governors already submitted and plans underway to present a legislative framework to the National Assembly.

A total of 23 governors attended the meeting, including those from Imo, Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Benue, Cross River, Delta, Ebonyi, Edo, Enugu, Gombe, Jigawa, Kano, Katsina, Kogi, Lagos, Nasarawa, Plateau, Rivers, Taraba, Yobe, and Ondo states, alongside the Deputy Governor of Borno State.

The meeting underscored growing collaboration between federal and state governments as Nigeria grapples with security and economic challenges, with renewed commitments to safeguard citizens while sustaining social support programmes.