Tinubu rallies governors on security, vows increased foreign support

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President Bola Tinubu on Sunday tasked state governors to intensify collaboration in tackling insecurity, pledging increased foreign support to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

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The president spoke when Vice President Kashim Shettima led governors on a traditional Eid-el-Fitr homage to the president’s residence in Lagos.

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Tinubu expressed gratitude to God for the unity demonstrated during Ramadan, noting that Muslims commenced and concluded the fasting period together in a spirit of shared faith and national cohesion.

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“We thank God that we all started together and ended it together. May Almighty Allah continue to guide us and put our nation on the right path.”

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He commended the governors for their continued support, stressing that the next phase of governance should focus squarely on addressing insecurity and restoring peace across the country.

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“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.”

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Tinubu described insecurity as a major obstacle to development, progress, and prosperity, urging all levels of government to remain resolute in confronting the challenge.

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“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress and prosperity. I am glad that we are all mindful of the challenge before us.”

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He pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s international partnerships to secure modern equipment, intelligence support, and training required to combat terrorism and other security threats effectively.

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“One of the major discussions in the United Kingdom was equipment and support. We are working to deepen collaboration in these critical areas.”

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Tinubu disclosed that he also held extensive discussions on Saturday with French President Emmanuel Macron on security cooperation and potential support for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.

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“I had a lengthy discussion with President Macron, and they are willing to collaborate with us on equipment and support.”

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The president said Nigeria would leverage its goodwill and existing diplomatic relationships to access resources, including credit facilities, to strengthen its security capabilities.

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“We must reach out to partners willing to support us with equipment and training so that we can effectively confront and defeat terrorism.”

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He also urged state governments to intensify efforts in caring for vulnerable populations, noting that while progress had been made, more could be done to improve social welfare systems.

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“I will not single out any state, but you are doing well and can do better in caring for the vulnerable in our society.”

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Tinubu warned that global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, could heighten inflationary pressures and erode Nigerians’ purchasing power.

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“The Middle East crisis will affect inflation and purchasing power, with implications for transportation costs and general living conditions.”

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He assured that the Federal Government would continue engaging labour unions and other stakeholders to mitigate the economic impact on citizens and maintain social stability.

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The president also commended the vice president for his swift response to recent security incidents in Borno, describing his actions as timely and commendable.

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“My condolences to Kashim Shettima. I appreciate your immediate return to Borno to convey sympathy and solidarity with the affected communities.”

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Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in technology, intelligence, and security infrastructure to decisively address insurgency and related threats nationwide.

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“We are determined to defeat terrorism and all its manifestations. We must come together to secure our nation and guarantee a peaceful future,” he said.

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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governors were led on the visit by the Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara, who is also the Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum.

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