President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to strengthen Nigeria’s security framework in 2026 through closer cooperation with regional and international partners, alongside reforms aimed at confronting terrorism, banditry and other security threats.
Speaking in his New Year address to the nation on January 1, the President said security and intelligence agencies would deepen collaboration with global allies to eliminate threats to national security, stressing that the protection of lives, property and Nigeria’s territorial integrity remains a core priority of his government.
Tinubu noted that while economic reforms are essential, sustainable development cannot thrive without peace and stability. He said the government would continue to pursue a comprehensive security strategy that blends intelligence-driven operations, international partnerships and institutional reforms.
“In 2026, our security and intelligence agencies will deepen cooperation with regional and global partners to eliminate all threats to national security. We remain resolute in protecting lives, property, and the territorial integrity of our country,” he said.
The President reiterated his support for a decentralised policing system, describing it as critical to addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges. He stressed that such a system must be implemented with clear safeguards, strong accountability structures and effective regulation.
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of properly regulated forest guards as a complementary measure, particularly in combating banditry and criminal activities in remote and forested areas. According to him, the coordinated use of decentralised policing, forest guards and intelligence-led operations would significantly strengthen internal security and improve law enforcement effectiveness.
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Calling on Nigerians to play their part, the President emphasised that nation-building is a shared responsibility.
“To achieve our objectives in 2026, we must stand together in unity and purpose, uphold patriotism, and serve our country with honour and integrity,” he said, urging citizens to be better neighbours and responsible stewards of the nation.
Tinubu expressed confidence that the combined efforts of government, security agencies and citizens would help restore lasting peace and stability across the country in the year ahead.
