President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday declared a nationwide security emergency, directing Nigeria’s security agencies to embark on an accelerated recruitment drive in response to escalating insecurity across the country.
A statement issued from presidency announced that the President has authorised the Nigeria Police Force to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, raising the total number of new intakes to 50,000.
Tinubu also approved the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary training centres to fast-track the process.
He warned criminal elements that government restraint should not be mistaken for weakness, vowing that the new measures would be accompanied by decisive action.
Tinubu further ordered the Department of State Services (DSS) to immediately deploy its already-trained forest guards to track down terrorists and bandits hiding in the nation’s forests. He said the agency has been directed to recruit even more personnel dedicated to securing forested areas, stressing that “there will be no hiding place for agents of evil.”
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces,” the statement quoted the President as saying. “By this declaration, the police and the army are authorised to recruit more personnel.”
He added that police officers previously withdrawn from VIP protection duties will undergo expedited retraining before being reassigned to high-risk zones.
Addressing Nigerians, Tinubu called for unity, vigilance, and collaboration with security agencies, noting that “this is a national emergency” and that “the times require all hands on deck.”
The President also commended security agencies for their recent successful operations, including the rescue of 24 abducted schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State. He assured that efforts would continue to secure the remaining students of Catholic School in Niger State and others still held captive.
“Tinubu urged the Armed Forces to remain steadfast, disciplined, and professional in restoring peace nationwide. “There must be no compromise, no collusion, and no negligence,” he said. “The Nigerian people are counting on you, and this administration will provide the support you need to succeed.”
