Tinubu urges security agencies to strengthen collaboration against insecurity

…president stresses stability as key to Nigeria’s economic growth

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has renewed his call for stronger collaboration among Nigeria’s security agencies, emphasizing that unity is essential in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other crimes across the country.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the fifth annual Strategic Security Conference and Retreat for Senior Police Officers in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the institutional capacity of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF). He described the police as the nation’s frontline defense in maintaining internal security.

“In my recent visit to the Office of the National Security Adviser and the National Counter Terrorism Centre, I stressed the need for greater synergy among security agencies,” Tinubu said. “Eliminating criminal activities requires a united front, and I urge this conference to focus on enhancing multi-agency cooperation.”

The President underscored that Nigeria’s economic ambitions depend on a stable security environment. “Our goal to harness the vast potential of our human and natural resources cannot be achieved without ensuring national security,” he stated.

Highlighting his administration’s progress since assuming office in 2023, Tinubu acknowledged the challenges of recent reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and improving security. These reforms, he noted, target issues such as inflation, unemployment, food security, and infrastructure development.

“We have implemented measures to restore investor confidence, stabilize the macroeconomic environment, and eliminate financial leakages by removing fuel and electricity subsidies,” he said. “These steps free up resources for critical infrastructure, boost productivity, and create jobs.”

The President emphasized that improving security agencies’ operational capacity is central to this strategy, with investments in better equipment, upgraded police facilities, and improved officer welfare, including a new minimum wage for security personnel.

Tinubu also called on citizens to collaborate with security agencies, stressing that public trust and cooperation are vital for effective policing. “No matter how well-trained or equipped a police force is, it cannot succeed without the support of the people it serves,” he noted.

The conference also featured remarks from key African security leaders.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun commended the federal government’s commitment to security, highlighting his state’s support for policing efforts, including the procurement of vehicles, motorcycles, and advanced surveillance drones in partnership with the French government.

Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun described the conference as a platform for refining police strategies and fostering innovation in internal security operations.

Regional leaders echoed the importance of collaboration. Kenya’s Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja Kirocho, called for increased joint exercises and security training across African borders to combat terrorism and trans-border crimes.

Rwanda’s Inspector General of Police, CG Felix Namuhoranye, emphasized that sustainable development and peace depend on strong security and inclusive governance.

As Nigeria faces growing security challenges, the conference reinforced the need for greater cooperation among security agencies, government bodies, and citizens to achieve national stability and economic prosperity.