TINUBU DECLARES NATIONWIDE SECURITY EMERGENCY, ORDERS MASS RECRUITMENT FOR ARMY, POLICE

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and directed the Nigerian Army and Police to begin massive recruitment exercises in response to escalating security challenges across the country.

In a statement issued on Wednesday evening, the President authorised the police to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total number of new recruits to 50,000, and instructed that National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps nationwide be used as training centres for the new intakes.

“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces,” Tinubu announced.

He directed that police officers withdrawn from VIP security duties undergo “crash training” for redeployment to high-risk areas.

Tinubu also granted approval to the Department of State Services (DSS) to deploy trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits hiding in forested areas. The agency has been further authorised to recruit additional personnel.

“There will be no more hiding places for agents of evil,” the statement read.

The President commended security forces for the successful rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, while assuring that efforts to free remaining captives, including students from a Catholic school in Niger State, would continue.

He urged the military to remain resolute, disciplined and unwavering in restoring peace across all conflict zones.

Tinubu also pledged federal support for state-controlled security outfits and called on the National Assembly to fast-track legal provisions enabling the creation of state police.

Addressing recurring herder–farmer clashes, Tinubu encouraged herder associations to engage with the newly established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development, embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons.

“Ranching is now the path forward for sustainable livestock farming and national harmony,” he said.

Tinubu cautioned states against establishing boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security and urged mosques and churches to seek protection for gatherings in vulnerable locations.

The President issued a strong warning to adversaries threatening national peace:

“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness.”

He urged Nigerians to stay calm, vigilant and united, advising citizens to report suspicious activities and support security agencies.

“We are in this fight together, and together we shall win,” he concluded.

The declaration marks one of the boldest security interventions by the Tinubu administration amid ongoing attacks in several northern states.