_By Adesakin Adefemi_
_November 26, 2025_
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has formally declared a nationwide security emergency in response to a sharp rise in mass abductions, with over 400 civilians, including students, kidnapped in Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, and Borno states. “This constitutes a national emergency, and we are escalating our response,” he stated, emphasizing the protection of citizens as a top priority.
The declaration authorizes the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to high-risk areas, reinforcing law enforcement presence across the country. “No region will be left vulnerable,” Tinubu affirmed.
The Nigeria Police Force will recruit 20,000 new officers, aiming for a total of 50,000 personnel, while the Nigerian Army will also expand its ranks. “Strengthening our forces is non-negotiable,” he said.
To expedite training, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps will serve as police training depots, optimizing resources for swift operational readiness. “Speed is critical in this fight,” Tinubu noted.
Officers previously assigned to VIP protection duties will undergo crash training and redeploy to frontline areas, boosting community policing efforts. “We need every capable hand,” he stressed.
The Department of State Services (DSS) is directed to immediately deploy trained forest guards to combat terrorists and bandits, with further recruitment underway. “There will be no safe havens for criminals,” Tinubu warned.
The federal government will support existing state security outfits, promoting coordinated action. “Unity amplifies our strength,” he said, urging collaboration.
President Tinubu has called on the National Assembly to review legislation enabling state police, allowing tailored local responses where needed. “Decentralization can accelerate security,” he suggested.
Boarding schools in remote, insecure areas should be reconsidered, states are advised, prioritizing student safety. Mosques and churches in vulnerable zones are urged to seek police protection during gatherings“vigilance saves lives,” Tinubu emphasized.
The president condoled families affected in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara, vowing to secure the abducted and “keep Nigeria safe.” The emergency measures take effect immediately.
