National Security Emergency: FG Call For Massive Police and Army Recruitment

In a decisive move responding to escalating security challenges across the country, the President has declared a nationwide security emergency and ordered a significant expansion of Nigeria’s security forces. The announcement—delivered in an official State House statement—outlines sweeping measures aimed at restoring peace, strengthening national unity, and countering the growing threats posed by terrorism, banditry, and communal conflict.

A National Emergency and a Call to Action

The President emphasized that the current security situation demands urgent, collective action. Citing recent attacks in several northern states—including Kebbi, Borno, Zamfara, Niger, Yobe, and Kwara—he expressed deep sympathy for families who lost loved ones and paid tribute to fallen heroes in the Armed Forces.

He reassured Nigerians that restraint should not be mistaken for weakness. According to the statement, the government remains fully committed to ensuring safety, defending national values, and preserving peace across all regions.

Massive Recruitment into Police and Armed Forces

One of the central directives in the emergency declaration is a major recruitment drive to strengthen security personnel nationwide.

• 20,000 additional police officers, bringing the total to 50,000.
• Expanded recruitment for the Armed Forces to strengthen operations in vulnerable and high-risk areas.

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Security training facilities—specifically National Youth Service Corps camps—have also been authorized for police training to fast-track deployment. Officers previously on VIP protection duty will now undergo crash retraining and be reassigned to critical zones.

Boosting Ground Operations and Forest Security

To further secure the country, the Department of State Services (DSS) has been ordered to deploy all forest guards who have already received specialized counter-terrorism training. A directive has also been issued to increase manpower in forest zones, which terrorists and bandits have used as hideouts.

Addressing Herdsmen–Farmer Clashes

The administration reaffirmed its commitment to resolving long-standing conflicts between herders and farmers. The President encouraged herder associations to embrace ranching, end open grazing, and surrender illegal weapons. The recently established Livestock Ministry is expected to lead these efforts toward sustainable, peaceful coexistence.

Commendation of Security Agencies

The President publicly praised the security agencies for recent successful operations, including the rescue of 24 schoolgirls in Kebbi State and 38 worshippers in Kwara State. Efforts are ongoing to secure the release of remaining abducted students and other citizens still held hostage.

A Call for Vigilance and National Unity

Beyond government action, the statement calls on all Nigerians to stay calm and vigilant, report suspicious activities, cooperate with security agencies, and reject fear and despair. The President stressed that the nation must stand together, insisting: “We are in this fight together, and together we shall win.”

Support for State Security Initiatives

The federal government also pledged support for state-level security outfits established to protect communities from escalating threats.

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Conclusion

The nationwide security emergency marks one of the most significant shifts in Nigeria’s security strategy in recent years. With expanded recruitment, enhanced training, and a renewed push for national unity, the administration is signaling an era of intensified action against insecurity. As Nigeria enters this critical phase, citizens and government institutions alike are being urged to join hands in the effort to build a safer, more secure nation.