President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that the security and welfare of all Nigerians remain the sacred and uncompromising priorities of his administration.
The President made the declaration on Sunday in Lokoja during the 10th Memorial Anniversary Celebration of former Kogi State Governor, Late Prince Abubakar Audu. Tinubu was represented at the event by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.
Addressing dignitaries and guests, Tinubu said his government had taken bold and strategic steps to tackle insecurity and deliver on its core national priorities.
He noted that the recent declaration of a state of emergency on national security reflects the seriousness with which the administration views the challenge.
“It is not a mere proclamation. It is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity,” the President said.
Tinubu explained that the government had commenced the expansion of the operational capacity of the armed forces and security agencies — including recruitment drives, acquisition of advanced weaponry, and strengthening of intelligence capabilities.
Nigeria Is Not a Religious War Zone — Tinubu
The President also rejected the mischaracterisation of Nigeria as a country plagued by religious intolerance, insisting that such narratives do not reflect the nation’s reality.
“A nation where people of different faiths live, walk and pray side by side in peace — this is who we are,” he emphasized.
“We will not relent until the world sees us for who we truly are.”
Livestock Modernisation, Youth Empowerment and Infrastructure Expansion
Speaking further, President Tinubu said his administration has intensified efforts in the areas of livestock modernisation, youth empowerment and infrastructure development as part of wider plans to grow the economy and ensure long-term stability.
He noted that the government is moving away from outdated livestock practices that have historically triggered conflicts.
“We are launching a comprehensive initiative to modernise the livestock industry,” he said.
“This includes large-scale ranching schemes, improved animal husbandry processes, and deeper integration of the livestock value chain into our national economy.”
Tinubu added that the initiative is designed to create jobs, enhance food security, and promote lasting peace, especially in communities affected by farmer-herder conflicts.
The President also highlighted ongoing social investment programmes targeted at the vulnerable, as well as expanded funding for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and youth skill development.
“We are scaling up interventions to equip our young people with skills to thrive in the global economy,” he stated.
In the area of infrastructure, Tinubu said the government is undertaking an “unprecedented expansion” of national assets — including roads, rail networks, and power infrastructure — to improve economic productivity and national cohesion.
Audu’s Legacy Celebrated
Turning to the essence of the event, President Tinubu described the late Prince Abubakar Audu as a visionary whose contributions to Kogi State and Nigeria’s democracy remain indelible.
“Audu’s name is irrevocably woven into the fabric of our nation’s democratic journey. He carved out a vision for Kogi and laid a foundation that continues to guide the state,” the President said.
A major highlight of the anniversary was the presentation of a new book titled “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership,” authored by Dan Okolo and reviewed by Mr. Adetokunbo Kayode.
The event also featured the inauguration of the Board of Trustees of the Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation, followed by a fundraising session to support the foundation’s take-off.