Tinubu pledges to combat terrorism, banditry, says they’re foreign to Nigeria

Describes insecurity as barrier to economic growth

By Mathew Brangyet

President Bola Tinubu has affirmed that Nigeria will overcome terrorism and banditry, describing these security issues as “unacceptable” and foreign to the nation’s core values.

He made these remarks during the opening of the Second National Economic Council (NEC) Conference at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on Monday.

Tinubu assured Nigerians of his government’s commitment to reinforcing the country’s security forces and restoring peace in affected communities.

“I promise you here that I’ll do my part. Seven zones of mechanisation are coming. I promise Nigerians that this will be delivered, and I am here again to further strengthen our security forces and defeat terrorism.

“That, I promise you, is what has kept all of us awake at night, but I assure you we will succeed with determination and resilience. We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry. It’s not part of our culture. It’s foreign to us,” he said.

The President described insecurity as a barrier to economic growth, stressing that everyone must work together to find an immediate solution.

He especially commended the governors of Borno, Katsina and Kaduna states, along with others, for doing “so much to defend our freedom, liberty and our commonwealth,” he added.

Welcoming state governors, ministers, members of the National Assembly, development partners and private sector leaders to the two-day conference themed “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030,” President Tinubu viewed the gathering as a sign of collective dedication to national progress.

He praised the National Economic Council, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for maintaining an essential platform for policy coordination and strategic dialogue.

“I am pleased to speak at the second edition of the National Economic Council Conference at a crucial point in Nigeria’s development journey. NEC remains a vital part of fiscal federalism and economic governance in our country,” he said.

Highlighting his administration’s key achievements, President Tinubu noted that the economic reforms since taking office have stabilised the economy and boosted confidence.

“I must say again at this point, the monetary policy that we have implemented since the reforms has produced positive results and gained recognition worldwide,” he observed.

He praised the Central Bank of Nigeria under Governor Yemi Cardoso for restoring trust in Nigeria’s monetary policy.

President Tinubu stated that state and local governments now receive increased, predictable federal allocations, improving their ability to pay salaries, invest in infrastructure and provide social services.

He further mentioned that development in transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing and irrigation has been prioritised.

The President also highlighted expanded social investment and human capital programmes aimed at vulnerable households, youth, women and small businesses, alongside grassroots initiatives under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

“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 cooperation among federal and state governments, development partners and the private sector,” he stated.

In the Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030, President Tinubu explained that it marks the next phase of Nigeria’s journey, rooted in inclusive, resilient, 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 largely depend on effective implementation at the state and local levels, making NEC central to aligning national goals with subnational realities.

“This Conference has reinforced collaboration, shared accountability and a focus on practical solutions and measurable outcomes.

“We must move decisively from declarations to action through data-driven decision-making, peer learning among states and innovative financing models,” he said.

Tinubu told the conference that while the task ahead is challenging, the opportunity is historic.

He expressed confidence that decisions made at the conference would promote agricultural diversification, including dairy farming, livestock investment and ranching investment and ranching.