President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern directive to Nigeria’s security and intelligence chiefs, demanding an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of national security strategies to address the escalating violence in Borno, Benue, Plateau, and Kwara states.
During a high-level meeting at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, Tinubu expressed deep concern over the persistent attacks and loss of innocent lives in these regions. “Enough is enough,” the President declared, emphasizing the urgent need for decisive action to restore peace and stability.
National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu, speaking to journalists after the meeting, revealed that the President had been actively monitoring the security situation, even during his recent working visits to Paris and London. Ribadu noted that Tinubu remained in constant communication with security agencies, providing directives and receiving updates on developments.
The NSA disclosed that the President had instructed security chiefs to engage directly with political authorities in the affected states. Following this directive, top security officials visited Plateau, Benue, and Borno states to assess the situation firsthand and coordinate with local governments.
Ribadu highlighted the importance of involving local councils and state governments in tackling insecurity, stating, “The issue of insecurity often is not just at the higher levels. It involves the subunits. They are the ones who are directly with the people, especially when some of the challenges border on community problems.”
The President’s concern comes in the wake of several recent attacks:
- In Plateau State, gunmen attacked Zikke village in Bassa Local Government Area on April 14, resulting in at least 51 deaths and the destruction of homes.
- In Benue State, twin assaults in Logo and Gbagir led to the deaths of at least 56 people, with armed herders being the primary suspects.
- In Borno State, an improvised explosive device detonated on the Damboa–Maiduguri highway on April 12, killing eight passengers and injuring several others.
These incidents underscore the severity of the security challenges facing the nation.
President Tinubu’s directive also emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration between federal security agencies and subnational actors. He urged security chiefs to work closely with governors, local governments, and community leaders to develop and implement effective strategies tailored to the unique challenges of each region.
The meeting was attended by key security figures, including:
- Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa
- Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Mohammed Mohammed
- Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undianeye
- Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Oluwatosin Ajayi
- Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila
The President’s decisive stance signals a renewed commitment to addressing the nation’s security challenges head-on. As Tinubu stated, “We are working to ensure that we restore peace and security.”
