Tinubu orders overhaul of national security strategy to tackle violence
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Abdullateef Fowewe
President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s national security strategy to tackle escalating violence in Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states, revealed a statement on Wednesday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
After a comprehensive two-hour meeting with security chiefs at the State House in Abuja, on Wednesday, the President expressed deep concern over the ongoing killings of innocent citizens.
“Enough is enough,” President Tinubu declared, condemning the senseless targeting of Nigerians and demanding urgent action to restore peace.
National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu briefed journalists, revealing that the President gave new directives focused on intensifying efforts and improving coordination with local governments and communities.
Ribadu noted, “The President directed that we work more with governors, traditional rulers, and community leaders, especially where issues are rooted in local conflicts. Insecurity is not just a federal government issue.
“It involves sub-units, state and local governments, because they are closest to the people.”
Ribadu also noted that President Tinubu has been actively monitoring the situation even during his recent work visits abroad, giving instructions to security agencies to work harder toward peace.
“We listened, and we took instructions from him. He gave us new directives. The fact is that Mr. President is insisting that we work harder to restore security in the country,” Ribadu said.
The NSA highlighted that the security forces have been deployed round the clock and have visited troubled regions on the President’s orders to engage with political and community stakeholders.
While acknowledging ongoing challenges, especially with insurgents planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno, Ribadu affirmed progress stating, “We are not where we want to be yet, but we are moving forward. We will not relent until we achieve lasting peace.”
The President’s firm stance signals a renewed commitment to ending violence and stabilising affected regions through enhanced collaboration between federal security agencies and local authorities.
Due to the security woes, the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, on Tuesday, April 22, announced a sweeping reorganisation of the Police Mobile Force (PMF) to boost internal security and restore the unit’s effectiveness as Nigeria’s elite tactical arm.
The directive, issued at a conference with PMF Squadron Commanders in Abuja on Tuesday, mandates the immediate withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorised duties, including private escorts and VIP guard assignments.
