President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong call for enhanced efficiency and better coordination among the nation's security agencies in the fight against widespread insecurity.
High-Level Security Review at State House
The President made this demand during a crucial, high-level security meeting held at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday. The closed-door session, which lasted for over an hour, brought together the heads of Nigeria's intelligence agencies and service chiefs. The meeting focused on a comprehensive review of recent security developments and an assessment of the effectiveness of ongoing operations across the country.
The gathering took place just 24 hours after the resignation of the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, highlighting its urgency. It was specifically convened to examine the nation's security architecture amidst escalating threats. These threats include a disturbing rise in the abduction of schoolchildren and worshippers in states like Kwara, Niger, and Kebbi.
Fresh Directives and a "Frank" Discussion
Briefing State House correspondents after the meeting, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, described the engagement as "frank and highly productive." He revealed that President Tinubu issued new and specific directives aimed at strengthening the national response to terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes.
General Oluyede assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces and other security agencies are now deepening their collaboration. This intensified partnership is geared towards ensuring a peaceful and secure environment for the upcoming festive season. He emphasized that with the President's new marching orders, security formations have gained renewed confidence and operate with a clearer operational roadmap.
Renewed Confidence to Safeguard Lives
The Defence Chief stated that the security apparatus is now more focused than ever on intensifying efforts to safeguard lives and property throughout the federation. The meeting served as a strategic reset, aligning all security heads with the President's demand for more measurable outcomes and tighter inter-agency coordination.
The high-powered meeting was led by General Olufemi Oluyede. Other top officials in attendance included:
- Lt. General W. Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff (COAS)
- Air Marshal Sunday K. Aneke, Chief of Air Staff (CAS)
- Vice Admiral I. Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff (CNS)
- Lt. General Emmanuel Undiandeye, Chief of Defence Intelligence (CDI)
- Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, Director-General, Department of State Services (DSS)
- Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun
The development signals the Tinubu administration's continued focus on addressing the multifaceted security challenges facing Nigeria, with an emphasis on achieving tangible results and improved inter-service synergy.
