TINUBU REAFFIRMS SECURITY AND ECONOMIC REFORMS AS CORE PRIORITIES AT AUDU MEMORIAL IN KOGI

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

President Bola Tinubu has reiterated that restoring peace, strengthening national security, and expanding economic opportunities remain the central focus of his administration.

The President’s message was delivered on Sunday in Lokoja by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during a memorial event held in honour of former Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu.

Speaking on behalf of the President, Idris said the Federal Government is taking “decisive action” to confront growing security challenges nationwide.

“We are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve. The security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government,” he said.

He noted that the recently declared State of Emergency on national security represents “a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity,” adding that the government has begun expanding the capacity of security forces in manpower, weaponry, and intelligence operations.

“We will hunt the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian,” he stated.

Idris further said that restructuring the national security architecture is vital to achieving lasting peace, emphasising Tinubu’s commitment to establishing state police.

“We believe a more localised, community-sensitive security structure is vital to complement the valiant efforts of our national forces,” he said, noting that the initiative is also expected to create grassroots employment.

On economic development, President Tinubu highlighted ongoing reforms across sectors, including a comprehensive plan to modernise the livestock industry through large-scale ranching, improved animal husbandry, and national economic integration.

He said that infrastructure development remains a critical pillar of the government’s strategy, alongside strengthening social investment programmes to support vulnerable citizens, small businesses and youths.

Tinubu described the late Prince Abubakar Audu as “a pathfinder and political pioneer” whose leadership helped shape Nigeria’s democratic foundation.

“His legacy is not a relic of the past; it is a template of bold leadership and transformative governance,” the President said. “It is a template this administration is committed to honouring, not just in words, but in concrete action.”

The renewed emphasis on national security follows recent incidents of mass abductions in Niger and Kebbi states. Armed men kidnapped students and staff of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Niger State, just days after 25 students were abducted in Maga, Kebbi State.

Following the spike in violence, President Tinubu cancelled scheduled foreign trips to coordinate the government’s security strategy. Several states in the North have also temporarily closed schools as precautionary measures.

The memorial event was attended by political leaders, family members and supporters of the late governor.