President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said his administration will step up efforts to tackle insecurity across the country, while continuing support for vulnerable Nigerians affected by rising economic pressures.
Speaking on Sunday, March 22, 2026, at his Lagos residence during an Eid-el-Fitr gathering with Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors, Tinubu said insecurity remains a major threat to development and must be addressed collectively.
The President said, “The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity,” noting that it undermines progress and prosperity.
Tinubu said discussions during his recent trip to the United Kingdom focused on improving Nigeria’s security capacity, including access to equipment and international support. He added that he had also held talks with Emmanuel Macron on further collaboration.
“They are collaborating with us for equipment and support. I am also making efforts to contact other nations,” he said.
The president returned to Nigeria on Friday after a three-day state visit to the UK, where he met with Keir Starmer and was hosted by King Charles III.
Beyond security, Tinubu warned that global developments, particularly tensions in the Middle East, could worsen inflation and reduce Nigerians’ purchasing power.
He urged state governments to introduce measures to cushion the impact, especially on energy and transportation costs.
He stated, “We should care more for the vulnerable,” noting that labour unions may demand additional government support as economic pressures increase.
Tinubu also called on governors to remain focused on policies that directly improve living conditions and to support efforts to curb criminal activities nationwide.
He acknowledged Shettima’s recent condolence visit to Borno State and assured residents of improved protection through the deployment of new technology.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, said governors were committed to working with the federal government to address insecurity.
He said discussions on the creation of state police were ongoing and that the forum would present proposals to the National Assembly for a legislative framework.
“Together, we must see that the issue of insecurity comes to an end,” AbdulRazaq said.
The meeting brought together governors from across the country, reflecting growing concern among state leaders over security challenges and the economic strain facing citizens.
