Tinubu vows to intensify fight against insecurity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity across Nigeria, declaring that rising security challenges will not derail efforts to support vulnerable citizens.

The President made this known on Sunday while hosting Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors at his Lagos residence during the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

Tinubu said insecurity remains a major obstacle to national development, stressing that his government is strengthening both local and international collaborations to address the threat.

“The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity. It is an enemy of development, progress and prosperity,” the President said, noting that discussions during his recent visit to the United Kingdom focused significantly on security support and procurement of modern equipment.

He disclosed that he had also held fresh talks with Emmanuel Macron on security cooperation, adding that France had expressed willingness to collaborate with Nigeria in providing equipment and technical support.

Tinubu, who recently returned from a state visit to the UK where he met with Keir Starmer and was hosted by King Charles III, said efforts are ongoing to engage other international partners.

Beyond security, the President raised concerns over the economic impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis, warning that it could worsen inflation and reduce citizens’ purchasing power. He urged state governors to introduce measures to cushion the effects, particularly in energy and transportation costs.

“We should care more for the vulnerable,” Tinubu said, adding that labour unions may intensify demands for increased government support due to global economic pressures.

The President also called on governors to remain committed to policies that directly improve citizens’ livelihoods and to work collectively in confronting criminal activities across the country.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the President for his leadership and the outcomes of the UK visit, describing it as a significant step in strengthening Nigeria’s international relations.

AbdulRazaq said governors remain united in addressing insecurity, revealing that discussions on the establishment of state police are ongoing. He added that the forum would present its proposals to the National Assembly to develop a legal framework for its implementation.

The meeting was attended by governors from across the federation, reflecting a broad show of support for the administration’s security and economic agenda.