Yemi Obafemi
President Bola Tinubu has said his administration will intensify efforts to address insecurity across Nigeria, stressing that the challenge will not derail government initiatives aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.
The President made the remarks on Sunday while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his Lagos residence during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
Tinubu said insecurity remains a major threat to national development, noting that his government is strengthening international partnerships to enhance Nigeria’s security capacity.
“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity,” the President said, adding that discussions during his recent visit to the United Kingdom focused on securing equipment and support to combat the challenge.
He disclosed that he had also held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron on security collaboration, particularly in the area of equipment and technical support.
“I had a lengthy discussion with the French President. They are collaborating with us for equipment and support, and I am also making efforts to engage other nations,” he said.
Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu recently returned from a three-day state visit to the United Kingdom, where they were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla. During the visit, the President also met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
The President further warned that the ongoing crisis in the Middle East could worsen inflation and reduce purchasing power in Nigeria, urging state governments to introduce measures to cushion the impact, particularly on energy and transportation costs.
“We should care more for the vulnerable,” Tinubu said, noting that rising global tensions could increase economic pressure on citizens and trigger demands for additional government support.
He called on governors to remain committed to implementing policies that directly improve the lives of citizens and to support efforts to tackle criminal activities across the country.
Tinubu also commended Vice President Shettima for a recent condolence visit to Borno State, assuring residents of improved protection through the deployment of new security technologies.
Speaking on behalf of the governors, Chairman of the Nigerian Governors’ Forum and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, expressed support for the President’s security agenda and ongoing reforms.
He noted that discussions on the establishment of state police were ongoing, adding that the forum would forward its recommendations to the National Assembly to facilitate a legislative framework.
“Together, we must ensure that insecurity comes to an end,” AbdulRazaq said.
He also congratulated the President on the United Kingdom visit, describing it as significant for strengthening bilateral relations and securing investment agreements.
The meeting was attended by governors from across the country, alongside other senior government officials.
