Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday extolled the armed forces for their unwavering sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, urging citizens to rally behind the troops as his administration vows to escalate the battle against insurgents and criminals plaguing the country.
Addressing the Nigerian Guild of Editors conference in the capital, Tinubu acknowledged the persistent scourge of violence while spotlighting the military’s frontline heroism and the government’s resolve to prevail through unity and international partnerships.
“Yes, we are challenged by terrorism, banditry, and others. We recognise that. Are we doing something about it? Are we inspiring the armed forces? Are we encouraging them to fight? They put their lives on the line to defend the sovereignty of this country. It is our responsibility,” he said.
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to the fight, declaring: “The task ahead is immense. But we are resolved to move forward with unity and purpose, to defeat terrorism and build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient Nigeria.”
The remarks arrive against a backdrop of mounting calls for decisive action on insecurity, including recent US concerns over alleged sectarian killings that prompted a stern rebuke from Washington. Abuja has countered by touting gains, such as an 81 percent drop in terror-related fatalities since 2015, the neutralisation of over 13,000 militants in the past year, and the surrender of more than 124,000 fighters and kin.
The presidency also highlighted the return of over 2.1 million displaced persons and the conviction of 124 insurgents since 2024, crediting tighter inter-agency ties for prosecuting perpetrators of atrocities like the 2022 Owo church bombing.
Tinubu’s administration, facing scrutiny over banditry in the northwest and Boko Haram remnants in the northeast, insists it is “winning the war” through enhanced operations and community collaboration, even as critics demand swifter results in Africa’s most populous nation.
