By DAYO ADESULU
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and ordered an immediate expansion of Nigeria’s security architecture, unveiling sweeping measures aimed at tackling the escalating wave of violent attacks, mass abductions, and bandit incursions across the country.
The President announced the emergency directive in a statement issued from the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, outlining fresh recruitment orders, new deployment strategies, and a renewed push for legislative reforms to strengthen national security.
20,000 More Police Officers, Expanded Army Intake
Under the new directive, the Nigeria Police Force has been authorised to recruit 20,000 additional officers, raising its total new intake to 50,000. The Nigerian Army will also begin a special recruitment drive, with new manpower expected to be deployed directly to high-risk zones.
Tinubu said police training facilities nationwide, already undergoing upgrades, may now use National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training depots to fast-track the process.
He also directed officers withdrawn from VIP security duties to undergo “crash retraining programmes” and join frontline deployments in states battling terrorism, kidnapping, and rural banditry.
DSS to Deploy Forest Guards, Begin Fresh Recruitment
In one of the most aggressive measures unveiled, the President authorised the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy its trained forest guards to clear criminal hideouts nationwide.
“This is a national emergency. There will be no hiding place for agents of evil,” the President said, adding that the DSS has also been granted approval to expand its personnel specifically for forest operations.
Government Commends Security Agencies, Confirms Ongoing Rescue Missions
Tinubu praised security operatives for the recent rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers kidnapped in Kwara State. He confirmed that rescue missions are still active for students abducted from a Catholic school in Niger State and other victims held across the country.
“To the Armed Forces, I commend your courage and sacrifice. There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence,” he stated.
State-Level Security Backed, Push for State Police Intensifies
The President signalled strong backing for state-run security outfits and urged the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws enabling states that desire state police to establish them.
He also advised state governments to avoid operating boarding schools in isolated areas without proper security, urging religious institutions in vulnerable regions to maintain constant engagement with security agencies during worship gatherings.
New Livestock Ministry to Tackle Farmer-Herder Conflict
Reiterating his administration’s stance on ranching, Tinubu urged herder associations to end open grazing and hand over illegal weapons.
“The Livestock Ministry exists to solve this once and for all. Ranching is the path forward,” he said.
Condolences and Warning to Violent Groups
The President extended condolences to families affected by recent deadly attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara states. He also honoured fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
Issuing a stern warning, he said:
“Those who want to test our resolve must not mistake our restraint for weakness.”
Call for Vigilance and National Unity
Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and report suspicious activities.
“Do not give in to fear. Do not succumb to despair. Together, we shall win,” he said.
