President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday restated his resolve to combat terrorism and other security challenges facing the country.
Addressing a gathering of the 36 state governors and some ministers of his Federal Executive Council at the second edition of the National Economic Council (NEC) Conference, held at the Banquet Hall, State House, President Tinubu described banditry and terrorism as menaces alien to Nigeria but which must be subdued.
“It is an economic hindrance. If we do not find an immediate solution to it,” he stressed.
He promised to continue strengthening the security forces and to seek partnerships to counter insecurity, which he admitted has given Nigerians sleepless nights.
He said: “To further find ways to strengthen our security forces to defeat terrorism and combat banditry, I promise you, is what has kept all of us sleepless at night. But I assure you that we will win with determination and resilience.”
The President commended the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Zulum, and his Katsina State counterpart, Dikko Umaru Radda, for their resilience and initiatives in combating insecurity.
“I commend many of you, particularly the governors of Borno State and Katsina, and others who have done so much to defend our freedom, liberty, and commonwealth,” he said.
Speaking on the conference theme, “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030,” President Tinubu described the gathering as a reflection of collective dedication to national progress.
He expressed satisfaction that the economic reforms undertaken by his administration have helped stabilise the economy and restore confidence.
“I must say again at this juncture that the monetary policy we have embarked upon since the reforms has yielded positive results and gained recognition around the world,” he said.
Tinubu stated that the reforms have enhanced the financial capacity of subnational governments to meet the needs of the citizenry.
He said: “We have recorded notable achievements that reflect our commitment to cooperative federalism and inclusive development. First, states and local governments now receive increased and more predictable FAAC allocations, improving their capacity to pay salaries, invest in infrastructure, and deliver social services.
“Second, we have strengthened macroeconomic stability through improved revenue performance, stronger public financial management, and enhanced fiscal coordination.
“Third, we have prioritised infrastructure development across transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing, and irrigation as a catalyst for inclusive growth.
“Fourth, we have expanded social investment and human capital programmes targeting vulnerable households, youth, women, and small businesses.
“The Renewed Hope Ward Development Project further demonstrates our commitment to grassroots inclusion through a bottom-up approach to national development. These successes reflect strong collaboration among the federal and state governments, development partners, and the private sector.
“The Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030 marks the next phase of our national journey. It is evidence-based, realistic, and anchored on inclusive, balanced, and environmentally sustainable growth.
“The Plan prioritises economic diversification and productivity; human capital development; subnational competitiveness based on comparative advantage; private sector–led growth; and climate resilience. Its success will depend largely on effective implementation at the state and local government levels, making the NEC central to aligning national priorities with subnational realities.”
