By John Umeh
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday announced a nationwide security emergency, unveiling sweeping measures aimed at curbing the wave of violence, kidnappings, and banditry spreading across the country.
In a statement released through the State House, the President directed the Nigeria Police Force to immediately recruit 20,000 new officers, increasing the total approved intake for the year to 50,000 personnel. The Armed Forces have also been authorized to expand their recruitment in response to the worsening security situation.
Tinubu further approved the temporary use of NYSC orientation camps as training centres for police recruits in order to fast-track their deployment.
“This Is a National Emergency” — President Tinubu
Announcing the emergency measures, the President said Nigeria must mobilize every available resource to confront escalating security threats.
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I am declaring a nationwide security emergency,” he said. “The police will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total intake to 50,000. The army and other security agencies are also authorized to expand their ranks.”
He added that officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties must undergo accelerated retraining before being redeployed to hotspots across the country.
DSS to Deploy Forest Guards; More Personnel to Join Operations
As part of the emergency response, Tinubu granted the Department of State Services (DSS) approval to deploy trained forest guards to dislodge terrorists and armed groups operating within Nigeria’s forest corridors. He also directed the recruitment of additional personnel to support these operations.
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency,” the President said. “We are deploying more boots on the ground, especially in areas under severe threat. The times require all hands on deck.”
Commendations for Rescued Victims, Fallen Soldiers
The President applauded the military and other security agencies for recent breakthroughs, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State. He also reiterated the government’s resolve to rescue students still being held hostage in Niger State.
Tinubu paid tribute to security operatives who lost their lives in recent missions, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices must not be in vain.
Push for State Police and Stronger Local Security Measures
Tinubu called on the National Assembly to expedite the review of legal frameworks that would allow states to establish state police where necessary. He urged governors, local councils, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to strengthen security arrangements within their communities.
He advised states to avoid locating boarding schools in isolated areas without adequate protection and encouraged religious institutions to seek constant security presence during services, particularly in high-risk zones.
Livestock Ministry and the Call to End Open Grazing
Speaking on recurring farmer–herder conflicts, the President emphasized the role of the newly established Ministry of Livestock Development in resolving long-standing tensions. He urged herder groups to embrace ranching, surrender illegal firearms, and move away from open grazing.
“Ranching is now the path forward,” Tinubu said. “The Federal Government and the states will work together to end this cycle of conflict once and for all.”
A Call for National Vigilance
The President encouraged citizens not to succumb to fear but to remain alert and cooperative with security agencies.
“Report suspicious activities. Work with our security forces. We are in this fight together, and together we shall win,” he said.
“May God bless Nigeria and protect our armed forces.”
