President Bola Tinubu has restated that restoring peace, strengthening national security and improving economic opportunities remain the central priorities of his administration.

The President’s message was delivered in Lokoja on Sunday at the memorial of former Kogi State Governor, Prince Abubakar Audu, by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris.

Idris, in a statement signed by his media aide Rabiu Ibrahim, told attendees that the Federal Government under Tinubu is fully committed to confronting threats to national stability.

“We are under no illusions about the recent setbacks and security challenges that have tested our nation’s resolve.

“Let me be unequivocal: the security and welfare of every Nigerian remain the sacred priority of my government. We have therefore taken decisive action,” he said.

The minister noted that the recently declared State of Emergency on national security represents a renewed push to expand manpower, modernise intelligence, and implement strategic reforms, including the advancement of State Police.

According to him, “The recent Declaration of a State of Emergency on national security underscores the gravity with which we view this challenge. This is not a mere proclamation; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity.

“As part of this, we have immediately begun the process of expanding the capacity of our armed forces and security agencies in numbers, in advanced weaponry, and in intelligence capabilities.

“We will hunt the enemies of our state wherever they may be and restore the peace that is the rightful inheritance of every Nigerian.”

Idris added that reforming the security structure is key to achieving lasting peace.

“To secure our people permanently, we must reform the very architecture of our security. This is why my administration is courageously championing the establishment of a State Police Force.

“We believe that a more localised, community-sensitive security structure is vital to complement the valiant efforts of our national forces. It will also boost employment in the grassroots.

“This is a bold, necessary constitutional step, one that requires our collective will, and we are committed to seeing it through,” he said.

He also stated that the Federal Government is intensifying diplomatic engagement to counter false narratives about Nigeria’s religious harmony.

Reflecting on the legacy of the late Audu, Tinubu described him as a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s democratic development.

“We are gathered to honour a giant- a man whose name is irrevocably woven into the very fabric of our democratic journey.

“Prince Abubakar Audu was not just a politician; he was a pathfinder. As the first democratically elected Governor of Kogi State, first in 1992 and again as a pioneer in 1999, Prince Audu carved out a vision for Kogi State and helped lay the foundation for our nation’s enduring democracy,” he said.

Tinubu also recalled their political relationship. “He was my formidable ally, a brother in the struggle, and one of the founding fathers who, with courage and conviction, laid the foundations upon which our democratic ideals now stand.

“His legacy is not a relic of the past; it is a living, breathing template of bold leadership and transformative governance. It is a template this administration is committed to honouring, not just in words, but in concrete action.”

The President highlighted reform efforts across the economy, including moves to modernise livestock farming.

“We are launching a comprehensive initiative to modernise the livestock industry.

“This includes the creation of large-scale ranching schemes, improved animal husbandry, and the integration of the livestock value chain into our national economy. Our goal is to transform this critical sector from a source of tension into a bastion of prosperity.”

Tinubu added that through the Social Investment Programmes, his administration aims to strengthen support for vulnerable citizens, small businesses and young people.

He also pointed to ongoing infrastructure expansion, saying, “We are building the arteries that will connect our markets, power our industries, and unite our people.

“Your Excellency and the good people of Kogi State, the legacy of development Prince Audu began in Kogi is a model we are determined to replicate and scale across the nation.”

The event was attended by political leaders, family members and supporters of the late governor.

The renewed statements on security come amid a fresh wave of kidnappings in Niger and Kebbi states. Recently, armed men abducted staff and students of St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary Schools in Papiri, Agwara LGA of Niger State — just days after 25 students were kidnapped in Maga, Kebbi State.

In response to the escalating situation, Tinubu cancelled scheduled trips to South Africa and Angola to coordinate the government’s security strategy, while several northern states have temporarily closed schools as abductions persist. (PUNCH)