Tinubu declares National Security Emergency
….orders massive recruitment into Army and Police
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency and announced sweeping measures to reinforce Nigeria’s security architecture, including a major recruitment drive across the Armed Forces, Police, and security agencies.
In a statement issued from the State House, the President said the decision was necessitated by the escalating security situation in several parts of the country. He authorised the Nigeria Police Force to recruit an additional 20,000 personnel—bringing the current recruitment cycle to 50,000—and granted approval for the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training depots for new intakes.
Tinubu also directed the withdrawal of police officers from VIP security duties, mandating that they undergo crash retraining before being redeployed to frontline, security-challenged regions.
The President further ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy the already-trained forest guards to comb Nigeria’s forests and root out terrorists and bandits. He also authorised the agency to carry out additional recruitment to bolster these operations.
“This is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground,” Tinubu said, urging citizens to actively support efforts to secure the nation. “The times require all hands on deck.”
The President commended security agencies for the recent rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 church worshippers in Kwara State, assuring that operations to free the remaining abducted students in Niger State and others still in captivity would continue with renewed intensity.
Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifice, paying tribute to personnel who have lost their lives in the line of duty, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba. He charged military commanders and troops to remain disciplined, resolute, and uncompromising in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
He also urged the National Assembly to begin reviewing laws to allow states that desire state police to establish them. Additionally, he advised state governments to reconsider siting boarding schools in remote, isolated areas without adequate security.
On the recurring herder-farmer conflicts, the President called on herders to utilise the newly created Ministry of Livestock Development, embrace ranching, and surrender illegal weapons. He stressed that open grazing must end for lasting peace and sustainable livestock management.
Tinubu extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara States and reassured Nigerians that his administration has the courage and determination to secure the country.
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness,” he warned. “Together we shall win.”
The President urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies.
The statement was signed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,
