President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that restoring peace, enhancing national security, and improving economic opportunities remain the core priorities of his administration.
Delivering the message in Lokoja on Sunday during a memorial for the late Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized the Federal Government’s commitment to confronting threats to national stability.
Idris, in a statement signed by his media aide, Rabiu Ibrahim, stated:
“We are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve. Let me be unequivocal: the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government. We have therefore taken decisive action.”
He noted that the recently declared State of Emergency on national security represents a renewed effort to expand manpower, modernize intelligence, and implement strategic reforms, including the advancement of State Police.
“The Declaration of a State of Emergency on national security underscores the gravity with which we view this challenge. This is not a mere proclamation; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity. We have immediately begun expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies in personnel, advanced weaponry, and intelligence capabilities. We will pursue the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian.”
Idris added that reforming the security architecture is critical to achieving lasting peace.
“To secure our people permanently, we must reform the very framework of our security. This is why my administration is championing the establishment of a State Police Force. A more localized, community-sensitive security structure is vital to complement the efforts of our national forces and will also boost employment at the grassroots level. This is a bold and necessary constitutional step, one that requires our collective will, and we are committed to seeing it through.”
He further highlighted that the Federal Government is intensifying diplomatic engagement to counter false narratives about Nigeria’s religious harmony.
Reflecting on the legacy of the late Prince Audu, President Tinubu described him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
“We are gathered to honor a giant—a man whose name is irrevocably woven into the fabric of our democratic development. Prince Abubakar Audu was not just a politician; he was a pathfinder. As the first democratically elected Governor of Kogi State, in 1992 and again in 1999, he carved out a vision for Kogi State and helped lay the foundation for our nation’s enduring democracy.”
Tinubu also recalled their political relationship:
“He was my formidable ally, a brother in the struggle, and one of the founding fathers who, with courage and conviction, laid the foundations upon which our democratic ideals now stand. His legacy is not a relic of the past; it is a living template of bold leadership and transformative governance—a template this administration is committed to honoring through concrete action.”
The President highlighted ongoing economic reforms, including initiatives to modernize livestock farming:
“We are launching a comprehensive initiative to modernize the livestock industry. This includes large-scale ranching schemes, improved animal husbandry, and integration of the livestock value chain into the national economy. Our goal is to transform this critical sector from a source of tension into a bastion of prosperity.”
He further stressed that the Social Investment Programmes aim to strengthen support for vulnerable citizens, small businesses, and young people. On infrastructure, he stated:
“We are building the arteries that will connect our markets, power our industries, and unite our people. The legacy of development Prince Audu began in Kogi is a model we are determined to replicate nationwide.”
The memorial was attended by political leaders, family members, and supporters of the late governor.
The renewed statements on security come amid a fresh wave of kidnappings in Niger and Kebbi states. Recently, armed men abducted staff and students of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA, Niger State, just days after 25 students were kidnapped in Maga, Kebbi State.
In response to the escalating situation, President Tinubu canceled scheduled trips to South Africa and Angola to coordinate the government’s security strategy, while several northern states have temporarily closed schools amid ongoing abduction.
Source: punchng.com
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