President Bola Tinubu has acknowledged that terrorism, banditry and other security challenges are giving Nigerians sleepless nights, insisting that such threats are unacceptable and will be confronted decisively by his administration.
The president made the remarks while addressing ongoing concerns over insecurity across parts of the country, as protests erupted in Kaduna State following the abduction of seven people by suspected bandits. The victims were reportedly taken from their communities, further heightening fears among residents already struggling with persistent attacks.
Tinubu said the safety of lives and property remains a top priority for his government, stressing that no nation can make meaningful progress when its citizens live in fear. He assured Nigerians that all arms of government are being mobilised to confront terrorism, banditry and other forms of violent crime.
According to the president, the security situation inherited by his administration is complex, but he maintained that it is not insurmountable. He said security agencies have been directed to intensify operations and work collaboratively to restore peace, particularly in areas that have experienced repeated attacks.
In Kaduna, residents took to the streets to protest the latest abduction, calling on both the federal and state governments to take stronger action against bandits operating in rural communities. The protesters expressed frustration over what they described as recurring incidents that have disrupted daily life and economic activities.
Witnesses said the protest was peaceful but emotional, as community members demanded the immediate rescue of those abducted and improved security presence in vulnerable areas. Many carried placards highlighting their concerns and urging authorities not to treat the situation as normal.
The abduction of seven people in Kaduna is the latest in a series of attacks attributed to armed groups operating in parts of the North-West and North-Central regions. These incidents have continued to put pressure on security agencies and raised questions about the effectiveness of current strategies.
Tinubu reiterated that his administration considers the persistence of such attacks unacceptable. He said Nigerians deserve to live and sleep without fear, adding that the government will not relent until criminal elements are dislodged from all parts of the country.
The president also called for patience and cooperation from citizens, noting that intelligence gathering and coordinated operations take time. He urged communities to continue to support security agencies with credible information that could help prevent attacks and rescue victims.
Security experts have warned that banditry and terrorism thrive in areas with limited state presence, poverty and difficult terrain. They have repeatedly called for a combination of military action, intelligence-led policing and socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of insecurity.
In recent months, the federal government has announced several measures aimed at strengthening national security, including improved funding for security agencies, acquisition of new equipment and enhanced collaboration among the armed forces, police and intelligence services.
Tinubu said these efforts are beginning to yield results in some areas, although he acknowledged that challenges remain. He maintained that his administration is committed to reviewing and adjusting strategies where necessary to ensure better outcomes.
The president also expressed sympathy with families affected by abductions and attacks, assuring them that the government is working to secure the release of victims and bring perpetrators to justice. He warned criminal groups that there will be no safe haven for those who threaten the peace and unity of the country.
As protests continue in Kaduna, residents are watching closely to see how authorities respond to their demands. Many say tangible improvements in security will be the true measure of the government’s commitment to ending terrorism and banditry.
Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his confidence that Nigeria will overcome its security challenges. He said with sustained effort, national unity and effective leadership, the country will defeat terrorism and ensure a safer future for all citizens.
