Tinubu Vows Fresh Offensive Against Terrorism, Says Insecurity Is Draining Nigeria’s Economy

President praises Borno, Katsina, Kaduna governors; promises stronger security strategy and renewed push for macroeconomic stability at NEC conference in Abuja.

Final News Article (BBC-standard):

President Bola Tinubu has pledged to intensify efforts to defeat terrorism and banditry across Nigeria, warning that persistent insecurity remains a major burden on the country’s economic progress.

Speaking on Monday at the National Executive Council (NEC) Conference on Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development in Abuja, the president said his administration is determined to explore new strategies that will strengthen the nation’s security architecture.

Tinubu commended several state governors, particularly those of Borno, Katsina, and Kaduna, for their roles in safeguarding lives and maintaining security in their regions.

“And I am leaving here again to further find means to strengthen our security forces to defeat terrorism and banditry, that I promise you. So, it’s an economic encumbrance if we do not find a solution to it,” the president said.

He acknowledged that the security challenges have caused widespread anxiety across the country but expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome them.

“It is what has kept all of us sleepless at night, but I assure you that we will win with determination and resiliency. We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry; it’s not part of our culture, it’s foreign to us,” he added.

Beyond security, Tinubu also outlined his administration’s economic reform agenda, stressing the importance of macroeconomic stability as a foundation for inclusive development.

According to him, the government is focusing on improving revenue performance, strengthening public financial management, and enhancing fiscal coordination.

“We are strengthening macroeconomic stability through improved revenue performance, stronger public financial management, and enhanced physical coordination. We have prioritized infrastructure development across transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation as catalysts for inclusive growth,” Tinubu said.

The NEC conference, which brings together key policymakers and stakeholders, is aimed at advancing discussions on sustainable development strategies for Nigeria’s future.