President Bola Tinubu has told governors across the country that the fight against insecurity has entered a critical phase, describing it as the “next phase of our struggle” that must be confronted collectively.
The President spoke in Lagos while addressing a delegation of governors who paid him a Sallah homage at his residence, expressing appreciation for their show of solidarity and unity.
“We thank God that we all started together and we ended being together. May God Almighty continue to enrich us and put our nation on the right path,” Tinubu said.
He said he was impressed by the turnout of the governors despite the short notice, noting that their presence reflected sincerity, commitment, and the value of unity among leaders.
“I’m very surprised at the short notice that this number is extremely impressive. It shows our sincerity, commitment and the value of friendship and togetherness,” he added.
Tinubu, however, emphasised that beyond camaraderie, the country must now focus squarely on tackling insecurity, which he described as a major obstacle to national development.
“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face. It’s the challenge of insecurity in this country, and I’m making all the efforts to ensure it is us, collectively, that will share the joy and be proud of victory over tyranny,” the President said.
He warned that insecurity remained a direct threat to progress and prosperity, stressing the need for coordinated efforts among federal and state authorities.
“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress and prosperity. That’s what insecurity is all about. And I’m glad you are all mindful of the challenge,” Tinubu said.
The President disclosed that his administration was intensifying international engagements to secure support, equipment, and training needed to combat security threats across the country.
He revealed that discussions held during his recent engagements in the United Kingdom focused significantly on security cooperation.
“One of the major discussions in the UK is equipment and support. I can report to you that yesterday again, I had a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron on their collaboration with us for equipment and support,” he said.
According to him, efforts are ongoing to reach out to other countries willing to support Nigeria, including through credit facilities, to strengthen security operations.
“If we have to spend our goodwill and line of credit, we have those who are willing to support us with equipment and training,” Tinubu added.
The President also urged governors to deepen their interventions at the state level, particularly in supporting vulnerable citizens, noting that governance must address both security and welfare concerns.
He cautioned that global developments, including the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, could trigger inflationary pressures and worsen the cost of living in Nigeria.
“I know this Middle East crisis will elicit inflation, will affect our purchasing power. Labour unions and others will be gearing to ask us to support them because of the effect… resulting in transportation problems and high prices,” he said.
Tinubu further extended condolences to Vice President Kashim Shettima over recent incidents in Borno State, commending his swift return to the state to sympathise with affected communities.
“My condolences to Kashim Shettima. I like what you did; returned immediately to Borno and collectively gave a message of sympathy and condolence to our people there. We are with you,” the President said.
Reaffirming his administration’s resolve, Tinubu stressed that investments in technology and equipment would be intensified to ensure that terrorism and criminality are decisively defeated.
“We must defeat terrorism and all of these characters who want to turn Nigeria…” he said
