President Bola Tinubu has ordered an immediate and comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s national security strategy in response to escalating violence in parts of the country.
During a high-level meeting with security chiefs at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, April 23, the President expressed deep concern over the continued loss of innocent lives, particularly in Benue, Borno, Plateau, and Kwara states. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu called for urgent measures to end the bloodshed and emphasized that “the killing of innocent people must stop.”
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, told journalists after the meeting that the service chiefs had given President Tinubu a detailed update on recent attacks, the number of casualties, and the destruction of properties. Ribadu said the President was unequivocal in his directive for a “new approach” to combating insecurity.
“Mr President gave us the chance to come and brief him again. Even when he was abroad, he remained actively engaged, giving instructions and following developments,” Ribadu noted, referring to Tinubu’s recent trips to France and the UK.
Ribadu added that Tinubu had earlier dispatched the security chiefs to the affected states and directed them to work closely with local and state authorities. “The issue of insecurity often begins at the grassroots. The President emphasized that we must involve local councils and community leaders in our response. He instructed us to intensify collaboration with governors,” Ribadu said.
“He was very worried and concerned. He said, ‘enough is enough,’” the NSA added. “We’re working with the armed forces, police, and intelligence community to restore peace and security.”
Escalating Security Challenges
The urgency of Tinubu’s security reforms is underscored by a series of recent violent incidents across Nigeria:
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Borno State: On April 13, a roadside bomb suspected to have been planted by Islamic extremists exploded under a passenger bus along the Damboa-Maiduguri highway, killing eight individuals and injuring over a dozen others.
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Plateau State: On April 14, at least 40 people were killed in a deadly attack by suspected Fulani Muslim herders on the predominantly Christian farming community of Zike. The attack involved shootings, looting, and home destruction, exacerbating religious and ethnic tensions in the region.
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Kebbi State: In March, militants from the Lakurawa group attacked Birnin Dede and six villages near the border with Niger, killing 11 civilians in a revenge attack. The group, reportedly affiliated with extremist organizations, has been designated as a terrorist organization by Nigerian authorities.
These incidents highlight the multifaceted nature of Nigeria’s security challenges, involving insurgent groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP, as well as communal conflicts and emerging terrorist organizations.