Security agencies working ’round the clock’- Minister

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The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that security agencies are operating around the clock to protect citizens, while actively taking steps to strengthen safety across the country.

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The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reassured the public in an interview with the BBC, published on the BBC News Africa YouTube channel on Friday and shared by his media aide, Ibrahim Rabiu on Saturday, amid growing concerns over national security, including the recent attack in Maiduguri.

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Over 20 people were reportedly killed and more than 100 injured when blasts struck on Monday, targeting the entrance of the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, the Monday Market and the Post Office areas.

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Idris firmly rejected claims that the country’s security forces had failed to do so.

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“I don’t think they failed. I think that more work needs to be done. Nigerian security agencies are working around the clock to ensure that this does not happen again,” he said, noting that Maiduguri has seen significant improvements in peace and stability over time.

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The minister also stressed the government’s commitment to ongoing reforms.

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“The government is putting a lot of attention. The reform agenda of the President is aimed at ensuring that Nigerians are safe and that this does not happen again,” he added.

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Turning to global developments, particularly the tensions in the Middle East and their potential impact on Nigeria, Idris emphasised the country’s readiness to support international stability, especially in the energy sector.

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“Nigeria is ever ready to contribute to energy security around the world. Whatever Nigeria can do to ease tension, it will do. The world needs oil, and Nigeria is there,” he said.

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On President Bola Tinubu’s current diplomatic visits, Idris described the engagements as pivotal for Nigeria’s international relations.

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“This visit underscores the historical relationship, the cultural ties, and the economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. We hope that we will deepen it further in the interest of both countries,” the minister stated.

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Highlighting the positive impact of government reforms on Nigeria’s global image, Idris said, “With the reforms that President Bola Tinubu has instituted, we have seen a significant uplift in the economy,” noting that “the invitation extended to the President reflects how positively these reforms are being viewed globally.”

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Concluding his remarks, Idris reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to sustaining reforms, strengthening security, and ensuring that Nigerians can live and work safely, while also positioning the country as a responsible and reliable partner on the global stage.

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