Nigeria’s Tinubu declares security emergency, orders mass recruitment of police and army

Tinubu commended security forces for rescuing 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara, and vowed to free remaining hostages, including students abducted in Niger state. Tinubu urged parliament to review laws to allow states to establish police forces and called on religious institutions to seek security protection during gatherings. He also pressed herder associations to embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons, citing efforts to end clashes with farmers. “I sympathise with families who lost loved ones and pay tribute to our brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba,” Tinubu said. “Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness.” Nigeria faces persistent violence from Islamist insurgents, armed bandits and communal clashes that have killed thousands and displaced millions in recent years. Tinubu commended security forces for rescuing 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara, and vowed to free remaining hostages, including students abducted in Niger state. Tinubu urged parliament to review laws to allow states to establish police forces and called on religious institutions to seek security protection during gatherings. He also pressed herder associations to embrace ranching and surrender illegal weapons, citing efforts to end clashes with farmers. “I sympathise with families who lost loved ones and pay tribute to our brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba,” Tinubu said. “Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness.” Nigeria faces persistent violence from Islamist insurgents, armed bandits and communal clashes that have killed thousands and displaced millions in recent years.