President Tinubu not taking security issues lightly, says VP Shettima

By Kunle Sanni

Vice President Kashim Shettima has emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is highly concerned about Nigeria’s security situation and is addressing it with utmost seriousness. He called for regional and collective efforts to tackle insecurity in West Africa’s Sahel region, noting that the security challenges in the Sahel have far-reaching consequences for Nigeria and its neighboring countries.

During a meeting on Monday with the leadership of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) at the Presidential Villa, Vice President Shettima highlighted the importance of collaborative action and encouraged support for NAN’s upcoming international lecture on Sahel security.

“The international lecture organized by NAN is very timely, especially considering the insecurity issues in the Sahel. The President is deeply invested in the nation’s security and is not taking these challenges lightly,” Shettima stated.

The Vice President expressed optimism about the conference, saying, “With the calibre of individuals attending the lecture, I am confident that you will provide numerous perspectives on how to comprehensively address insecurity in the Sahel.”

Shettima also praised NAN for its significant contribution to Nigeria’s media landscape. “Your organization plays a vital role in shaping public discourse on national issues and bridging the information gap,” he remarked.

Earlier, NAN Managing Director Ali Mohammed Ali unveiled the theme of the conference, “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024): Dissecting Nigeria’s Challenges – Genesis, Impacts, and Options.” He announced that Mohamed Ibn Chambas, the former Chairperson of the ECOWAS Commission, would be the keynote speaker at the event scheduled for September 25, 2024.

Ali explained that the conference is part of NAN’s broader efforts to extend its role beyond news dissemination, contributing actively to national dialogue and problem-solving. “NAN is hosting its first international lecture to enhance knowledge and develop solutions to pressing issues,” he said.

He also outlined several initiatives to strengthen NAN’s reach and effectiveness, including the launch of vernacular broadcasting starting with a Hausa portal, plans to reopen international offices, particularly the London bureau, and efforts to enhance coverage across all 109 senatorial districts in Nigeria.

“No organization understands Nigeria better than NAN,” Ali noted, emphasizing the agency’s extensive network of correspondents and offices across the country.

Ali further revealed that President Tinubu is expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Xinhua News Agency during his visit to China, aiming to expand NAN’s international partnerships.

Also present at the meeting were Abdulhadi Khalil, NAN’s Director of Administration; Muftau Ojo, Director of Special Duties; Ismail Abdulaziz, Deputy Director of Multimedia; and Ngozi Anofochi, Board Secretary.