By Seun Ibiyemi
President Bola Tinubu has called on state governors to strengthen collaboration in tackling insecurity across the country, pledging increased international support to boost Nigeria’s security architecture.
The President made the call on Sunday in Lagos while receiving governors who paid the traditional Eid-el-Fitr homage, led by Vice-President Kashim Shettima.
Tinubu stressed that the next phase of governance must focus on confronting insecurity, describing it as a major threat to national development and prosperity.
“The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity, and I am making all efforts to ensure we collectively achieve victory over forces threatening our stability,” he said.
He urged all levels of government to remain resolute, noting that insecurity continues to undermine economic growth and social stability.
The President also disclosed plans to deepen Nigeria’s international partnerships to secure modern military equipment, intelligence sharing, and training support needed to combat terrorism effectively.
According to him, discussions with partners in the United Kingdom and with President Emmanuel Macron of France focused on enhancing cooperation in security and defence.
“We are working to deepen collaboration in these critical areas. They are willing to support us with equipment and training,” Tinubu said.
He added that Nigeria would leverage its diplomatic relationships to access credit facilities and other resources to strengthen its security capabilities.
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Tinubu also warned that ongoing tensions in the Middle East could worsen inflation and reduce the purchasing power of Nigerians, with ripple effects on transportation costs and general living conditions.
“The Middle East crisis will affect inflation and purchasing power,” he noted.
The President assured that the Federal Government would continue engaging labour unions and other stakeholders to cushion the economic impact on citizens.
He further urged state governments to improve social welfare programmes for vulnerable populations, acknowledging ongoing efforts while calling for more action.
Tinubu also commended Shettima for his prompt response to recent security incidents in Borno State, describing his intervention as timely and compassionate.
“My condolences to Kashim Shettima. I appreciate your immediate return to Borno to convey sympathy and solidarity with affected communities,” he said.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Tinubu said investments in technology, intelligence, and security infrastructure would be intensified to decisively tackle insurgency and related threats.
“We are determined to defeat terrorism and all its manifestations. We must come together to secure our nation and guarantee a peaceful future,” the President added.
The governors were led on the visit by AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who also serves as Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
