President Bola Tinubu has announced that terror-related deaths in Nigeria have dropped by 81% since 2015. The President made this known during his Democracy Day broadcast, where he highlighted the administration's efforts to improve security across the country.
Security Emergency Declaration
In his address, President Tinubu acknowledged the challenges facing the nation, including the recent abduction of children in Oyo and Borno states. He emphasized that democracy without security is not solid enough, which is why his administration declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of more than 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military recruits.
Record Defence Budget
The President revealed that the 2026 budget commits N5.41 trillion to defence and security, the largest allocation ever in Nigeria's history. This funding is part of the government's commitment to protecting its citizens and combating terrorism.
Military Successes
Tinubu noted that Nigeria has moved from training with allies such as the United States, France, and other European countries to precision targeting. He cited the degradation of ISWAP's command centre in Arege, Borno State, as a key achievement. The President stated that terror-related deaths have fallen by 81% since 2015, with over 13,000 terrorists neutralised in the past year.
Surrender Programme
Despite the military successes, the government continues to offer an olive branch to those willing to surrender. Through Operation Safe Corridor, over 124,000 fighters and dependents have laid down their arms since 2023. President Tinubu expressed hope for the safe return of abducted children and reiterated the administration's readiness to do more to secure the people.
