Tinubu issues ultimatum to bandits and terrorists
President Bola Tinubu has sent a stern warning to terrorists, insurgents, and bandits across Nigeria, urging them to surrender to the military or face severe consequences. The President highlighted the significant strides the Nigerian armed forces have made in combating terrorism, insurgency, and violent crimes, asserting that stability is gradually returning to the country. Tinubu conveyed this message while declaring open the News Agency of Nigeria’s (NAN) Inaugural Annual International Lecture on Thursday in Abuja.
The event, themed “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024): Dissecting Nigeria’s Challenges – Genesis, Impacts, and Options,” was organized by NAN to shed light on the security threats in the Sahel region and their impact on Nigeria. Represented by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, President Tinubu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the country through both military action and non-combat strategies.
“We are seeing the difference you [the armed forces] are making. Our security forces, led by General Christopher Musa, and all in the armed forces are doing commendable work. Nigeria will forever be grateful,” Tinubu stated. “We are beginning to restore order and stability. A new Nigeria is emerging.”
He noted that key areas previously plagued by insecurity, such as the Abuja-Kaduna and Lokoja highways, have seen marked improvements in safety. Tinubu praised the efforts that have led to significant reductions in mass kidnappings in these areas, and police stations across the South East have been restored to full operations, a positive signal of the renewed security measures.
The President also underscored the progress made in the fight against terrorism, emphasizing that since the beginning of his administration, there have been no reported attacks targeting religious institutions or government buildings in major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Kaduna, and Kano.
“This is a clear reminder of how far we have come in a short period of time. Nigeria is changing, and we will not relent,” Tinubu added.
One of the notable achievements Tinubu highlighted was the reopening of Nigeria’s borders, which he described as a sign of increased regional cooperation. He also lauded the establishment of a Ministry of Livestock, created to address the long-standing tensions between herders and farmers, which have fueled conflict in many rural areas.
“This is the new Nigeria we are building,” Tinubu affirmed, pointing to the various policies and reforms his government has implemented as part of the Renewed Hope agenda. He expressed optimism that addressing Nigeria’s internal security issues would contribute to stabilizing the broader Sahel region, which has been ravaged by violence, food insecurity, and extremism.
In his closing remarks, the President commended NAN for organizing the lecture, calling it a valuable contribution to the ongoing national conversation about security. He reiterated that a secure Nigeria would lead to a more stable Sahel region and called for continued efforts to address the complex challenges facing both Nigeria and its neighbors.
To insurgents and bandits still operating in the country, Tinubu issued a final warning: “Surrender now or face the full force of our military in a renewed onslaught.”
