President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that democracy cannot function without security, describing any democratic system lacking safety as “a mirage.”
Speaking on Nigeria’s worsening security situation, the President said recent celebrations had been overshadowed by the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo State and Borno State. He expressed optimism that the victims would be rescued and safely reunited with their families.
Tinubu disclosed that his administration has already declared a security emergency nationwide and approved the recruitment of over 50,000 new police officers, alongside thousands of military personnel, to strengthen the country’s security architecture.
He further revealed that the 2026 national budget allocates ₦5.41 trillion to defence and security—describing it as the largest security spending in Nigeria’s history. According to him, the government remains committed to intensifying efforts to protect lives and property across the country.
Issuing a strong warning to criminals, including bandits, kidnappers, terrorists, and their sponsors, the President declared:
“Surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian State. These windows of surrender will not remain open forever. No mercy will be shown to those who trade in the blood of Nigerians.”
He reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore peace and stability across Nigeria, stressing that decisive action would continue until national security is fully restored.
