By: Ahmed Rufa’i
The Federal Government has declared a nationwide security emergency in response to rising security threats across the country.
In a statement obtained by Truths Finder from the Ministry of Information, the government announced new directives to strengthen national security operations.
Under the measure, the Nigeria Police Force has been authorised to recruit an additional 20,000 officers, raising the total recruitment figure to 50,000.
The government also approved the use of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps as temporary police training centres to fast-track the mobilisation process.
Officers withdrawn from VIP protection duties will undergo crash training before being deployed to high-risk and vulnerable areas.
The Department of State Services (DSS) has been directed to immediately deploy all trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits across forested regions.
The agency also received approval to recruit more personnel to reinforce operations in hard-to-reach locations.
Government described the situation as a national emergency, urging citizens to remain involved in efforts to secure the country.
It commended security agencies for the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi and 38 worshippers in Kwara State.
Authorities assured that efforts are ongoing to secure the release of abducted students in Niger State and other Nigerians still in captivity.
The government praised the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and urged them to maintain discipline, integrity, and determination across all theatres of operation.
It also reaffirmed support for states that have established local security outfits to protect their communities.
The statement called on the National Assembly to consider legal reforms for states seeking to establish state police.
Government further advised states to review the location of boarding schools and urged religious centres to strengthen security during gatherings.
On farmer–herder clashes, the administration encouraged herder groups to embrace the new Livestock Ministry’s ranching initiatives and surrender illegal weapons.
The government extended condolences to families affected by recent attacks in Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe and Kwara states and honoured fallen soldiers, including Brigadier-General Musa Uba.
It urged Nigerians to stay calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies, stressing that national unity is key to overcoming insecurity.
