Abuja, Nigeria — November 26, 2025:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, authorising large-scale recruitment into the Nigerian Army, Police Force, and Department of State Services (DSS) as part of a reinforced national strategy to address the escalating security challenges across the country.
In a national address from the Aso Rock Villa, the President announced that the Nigeria Police Force has been mandated to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, increasing the total recruitment figure to 50,000 personnel.
He further granted approval for the use of NYSC orientation camps as temporary police training depots, complementing the previously sanctioned upgrade of police training facilities nationwide.
President Tinubu also directed that officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties undergo rapid retraining ahead of their redeployment to high-risk areas.
The DSS, he said, has been authorised to immediately deploy trained forest guards to dislodge terrorists and criminal gangs hiding in forested regions. The agency also received approval to recruit additional operatives to intensify surveillance and security operations across national forests.
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Calling the situation a “national emergency,” President Tinubu emphasised the need for more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged communities. He urged citizens to actively support national security efforts and remain vigilant.
The President commended Nigeria’s security agencies for the coordinated rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State, noting that efforts continue to secure the release of students abducted in Niger State and other victims held by terrorist groups.
President Tinubu praised the Armed Forces for their bravery and sacrifice, including the late Brigadier-General Musa Uba, who lost his life in active service. He urged the military to remain resolute, disciplined, and uncompromising in operations across all theatres.
The President reaffirmed federal support for state-owned security outfits, encouraging state governments to continue strengthening local security capacity.
He also called on the National Assembly to begin reviewing legislation required to enable states to establish state police where necessary.
On the issue of recurring clashes between herders and farmers, President Tinubu encouraged herder associations to embrace ranching initiatives championed by the recently established Federal Ministry of Livestock Development.
He appealed to herders to end open grazing and surrender illegal weapons, stressing that ranching remains the sustainable path forward.
The President also urged states to carefully reconsider the establishment of boarding schools in remote and potentially insecure areas, emphasizing the importance of conducting thorough security assessments beforehand.
This includes evaluating local threat levels, coordinating with security agencies, and implementing comprehensive safety protocols for students and staff.
Additionally, religious institutions were advised to actively seek police protection during gatherings, especially when located in vulnerable or isolated regions.
They should establish direct communication channels with law enforcement, develop emergency response plans, and ensure that security personnel are present to safeguard attendees and prevent any incidents.
Expressing sympathy to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe and Kwara States, President Tinubu reiterated that those attempting to test the government’s resolve should not mistake restraint for weakness. He vowed that his administration would continue to take decisive action to protect the nation.
The President urged Nigerians to stay united, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies as the government intensifies efforts to restore peace nationwide.
“We are in this fight together,” he said. “And together, we shall win.”
