In a strong speech on Wednesday, President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency for national security and cautioned those who wish to test his administration’s determination not to mistake his restraint for weakness.
Additionally, the president gave the appropriate authorities instructions to increase the number of soldiers and police.
This came after terrorists caused increased security breaches in several regions of the nation, particularly in the states of Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger.
Remember that on Wednesday, the president increased the number of police officers to 20,000 from the initial request of 30,000.
Additionally, Tinubu urged state governments to reconsider the notion of setting up boarding schools in isolated locations without sufficient protection.
Mosques and churches should always look for police and other security protection when they come together for prayers, he urged, especially in regions that are vulnerable.
“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 said in his own words.
This proclamation gives the army and police the authority to hire extra people. To reach 50,000 officers, the police will hire an extra 20,000.
“This statement authorizes the police authorities to use different National Youth Service Corps camps as training depots, even though I had previously approved the nationwide upgrade of police training facilities.”
“To debrief them and provide more effective police services when deployed to security-challenged areas of the country, the officers being removed from VIP guard duties should undergo crash training.”
“The DSS also has the authority to immediately deploy all of the forest guards who have already received training in order to drive out the terrorists and baddies who are hiding in our forests.” Additionally, I have instructed the agency to hire extra men to staff the forests. Agents of evil will have nowhere to hide.
“My fellow Nigerians, we are responding to this national emergency by increasing the number of boots on the ground, particularly in places with poor security. All hands must be on deck during these times. We should all participate in safeguarding our country as Nigerians.
“Let me use this opportunity to thank our security agencies for cooperating to ensure the release of the 38 worshippers in Kwara State and the 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi. We will keep working to free the remaining Catholic School kids in Niger State as well as those Nigerians who are still being kept captive.
“I applaud the bravery and sacrifice of our military’s leadership and rank and file. This is a difficult time for both the military institution and our country. I implore you to maintain the highest levels of integrity and discipline, to be unwavering in your resolve, and to bring peace to all operational arenas. There must be no neglect, no cooperation, and no compromise. The Nigerian people rely on you, and this administration will give you the assistance you require to be successful.
Additionally, our administration will assist state governments that have established security units to protect their citizens against terrorists determined to disturb the calm in our country.
“I urge the National Assembly to start examining our laws so that states that mandate the establishment of state police can do so.
“States ought to reconsider setting up boarding schools in isolated locations without sufficient security.” When gathering for prayers, mosques and churches should always request police and other security protection, particularly in regions that are vulnerable.
“To address the ongoing conflicts between farmers and herders, our administration established the Livestock Ministry.” I urge all herder groups to seize the opportunity, put a halt to open grazing, and turn in any illicit firearms. Today, ranching is the way ahead for both national unity and sustainable livestock farming. Together with the states, the federal government will work with you to find a permanent solution to this issue.
“I offer my condolences to the families who have lost loved ones in the recent attacks on soft targets in the states of Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara.” I also honor our courageous warriors, such as Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who have given their lives.
“Our caution should never be interpreted as weakness by those who wish to test our determination. This administration has the guts and tenacity to protect the nation and guarantee that our people live in harmony.
“My fellow countrymen, I implore you to resist giving in to fear and to never give up. To protect our freedom and ideals, let’s unite in strength and purpose. Our administration will keep upholding our togetherness and ensuring peaceful coexistence. I implore every Nigerian to maintain composure and alertness. Report any questionable activity. Work along with security services. Together, we will prevail in this battle.
“May God continue to bless Nigeria and protect our military.”
Tinubu Suggested US, UK, and French Ambassadors
In the meantime, President Bola Tinubu has proposed non-Career ambassadors to France, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
On Wednesday, Mr. Bayo Onanuga’s X handle revealed the information.
Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu, retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are, and Ambassador Ayodele Oke are the three candidates.
“President Tinubu has nominated non-career ambassadors for three countries: the United States, the United Kingdom, and France,” the statement states in its entirety. After Senate review, the positions will be finalized. Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu, retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are, and Ambassador Ayodele Oke are the three nominees.
Initially appointed in 2016, Ambassador Amin Mohammed Dalhatu was Nigeria’s ambassador to South Korea during President Buhari’s administration.
Former Director General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA) and former ambassador of Nigeria to the Secretariat of the Commonwealth of Nations in London, Ambassador Ayodele Oke is a graduate of Emory University in Atlanta.
“Retired Colonel Lateef Kayode Are was an officer in the Directorate of Military Intelligence, Director General of the State Security Service (SSS) from 1999 to 2007, and National Security Advisor in 2010. In 1980, he received First Class Honors in Psychology from the University of Ibadan.
