Tinubu urges governors to unite against insecurity, pledges global push for military training

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday urged Nigeria’s governors to unite against the nation’s insecurity challenges, describing it as the “next phase of our struggle” and committing to leverage international partnerships for military equipment and training.

He have the charge while hosting an impressive turnout of governors under the platform on Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) at his Lagos residence on short notice, Tinubu hailed their solidarity as a testament to “sincerity, commitment and the value of friendship and togetherness.” He emphasized collective action, stating, “I’m making all the efforts to ensure it is us, collectively, that will share the joy and be proud of victory over tyranny.”

Insecurity, the President noted, remains “an enemy of development, progress and prosperity.” He revealed ongoing diplomatic efforts, including a “lengthy discussion” with French President Emmanuel Macron on “equipment and support,” alongside talks in the UK and outreach to other nations. “If we have to spend our goodwill and line of credit, we have those who are willing to support us with equipment and training,” Tinubu assured.

While praising governors’ efforts in state-level development—“you are all doing well, but you can do better, caring for the vulnerable”—he warned of looming economic headwinds from the Middle East crisis. This, he said, could fuel inflation, erode purchasing power, and prompt demands from labour unions over rising fuel prices and transportation costs. “I know this Middle East crisis will elicit inflation, will affect our purchasing power, the Labour unions and others will be gearing to ask us to support them because of the effect of the Middle East War and prices at the pumps, resulting in transportation problems and high prices,” Tinubu observed, adding a lighter note: “even though the chairman had said there’s no need for policy discussion, we should rejoice, I’m glad you have something to bite.”

Tinubu also extended condolences to Vice President Kashim Shettima over recent losses in Borno State, commending his swift return to deliver a message of sympathy. “My condolences to Kashim Shettima, I like what you did; returned immediately to Borno and collectively gave a message of sympathy and condolence to our people there. We are with you,” he said. The President reaffirmed investments in technology and equipment to “defeat terrorism and all of these characters who want to turn Nigeria to…”

Responding on behalf of the governors, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chairman of NGF, delivered season’s greetings and congratulated Tinubu on his recent UK state visit—the first in 37 years. “This is bold and significant. It speaks to new leadership lease in Nigeria and we thank you and congratulate you for that, sir,” AbdulRazaq said. He expressed confidence that the bilateral agreements would usher in greater prosperity.

AbdulRazaq praised the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda for fostering national pride and stakeholding in nation-building, which he linked to improved security. “Together, we must see that breaches of security all over the country comes to an end,” he declared.

On state police, the NGF Chairman noted ongoing discussions led by the National Security Adviser, with the governors’ contributions ready for the National Assembly. “That document will be taken to the National Assembly to see how we can have a legislative framework for State Police,” he stated. The governors recommitted to partnering with security forces to defeat terrorism, expand infrastructure, and enhance livelihoods.

Noting the turnout of about 25 governors at short notice as a mark of respect for Tinubu’s leadership, AbdulRazaq framed the visit as celebratory. “This is not a time to discuss policy issues, that we’ll meet with you later on that, but today is to celebrate with you and thank God for where we are today and what we have achieved with your leadership. Sir. Thank you very much,” he concluded, urging piety, unity, and compassion for collective security and prosperity.