President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed that restoring peace, strengthening national security, and expanding economic opportunities are the top priorities of his administration.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, disclosed this on behalf of the President during the memorial lecture for the former Governor of Kogi State, the late Prince Abubakar Audu, in Lokoja on Sunday.
Tinubu stated that the Federal Government is fully prepared to crush all enemies of the state wherever they may be, in order to restore the peace that every Nigerian has a right to inherit.
He said: “But we are not deceiving ourselves about the security challenges and recent problems that have tested the resolve of our nation. Let me be clear: the security and welfare of every Nigerian are paramount concerns that this government holds sacred. Therefore, we have taken urgent steps,” he stated.
Tinubu emphasized that the State of Emergency recently declared on national security is not mere political rhetoric, but a sign of renewed commitment to increasing security personnel, improving intelligence, and implementing crucial reforms, including strengthening the push for the establishment of State Police as a more community-appropriate solution to internal threats.
"The recent declaration of a State of Emergency on national security signifies how seriously we take this challenge. It is not an empty pronouncement; it is a declaration of war against all forms of insecurity. As part of this move, we have begun implementing an increase in the strength of our military and security forces—in terms of personnel numbers, advanced weaponry, and intelligence expertise. We will hunt down the enemies of our nation wherever they are to restore the peace that every Nigerian deserves to enjoy.
“But to ensure lasting public safety, we must reform our security architecture from the ground up. That is why my administration supports the initiative to establish State Police. We are convinced that a more community-centric security framework will help fill the gaps that federal forces alone cannot cover. It will also create more jobs at the local government level. This is a major, necessary step that touches on the constitution, and we are determined to see it through to success.”
The President added that the Federal Government is intensifying diplomatic engagement with the international community to correct false narratives that undermine the positive interfaith relations and peace in Nigeria.
Reflecting on the immense contributions of the late Prince Abubakar Audu, the President described him as a pillar in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
He said the late Prince Audu was a visionary leader who helped lay the foundation for governance in Kogi State and contributed to Nigeria’s attainment of civil stability.
He stated that Prince Audu’s political journey was not driven by personal ambition, but by a lasting commitment to nation-building and strengthening democratic institutions.
Tinubu said he also draws leadership inspiration from such a vision, where work is measured by impact, not praise.
“We have gathered here to honor a legend. A man whose name is woven into the 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—back in 1992, and again as a leader in 1999—Prince Audu laid out a vision for Kogi State and helped build the cornerstone of our nation's democracy.
“He was my close friend, my brother in struggle, and one of the master builders who displayed courage in laying the democratic bricks we lean on today.
"The legacy he left is not just history; it is a living example of bold leadership and transformative governance. It is an example that this administration is committed to honoring, not just in words, but in action.”
Forecasting progress in key economic sectors, President Tinubu said his administration is revitalizing the livestock sector to transform conflict-prone regions into hubs of economic development and peace.
“We are launching a comprehensive plan to revitalize the livestock industry. This includes providing a large-scale modern ranching system, improved animal husbandry, and integrating the livestock value chain with the national economy.
"Our goal is to transform this vital sector from a source of conflict to a source of wealth—by creating jobs, ensuring food security, and fostering lasting peace between farmers and herders.”
Through the People’s Empowerment Programmes, the President said the government is putting Nigerians at the center of governance by expanding direct support to the most vulnerable, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and providing youth with skills to compete in the global economy.
Furthermore, he said his administration is implementing an expansion of critical infrastructure projects on an unprecedented scale—from rehabilitating roads and rail lines to improving power supply.
“We are building roads that will connect our markets, energize our industries, and unite our people.
"The esteemed Governor and good people of Kogi State, the legacy of progress that Prince Audu began in Kogi is what we have pledged to uphold and expand across the nation."