In his first year in office, President Bola Tinubu has made noteworthy strides in enhancing national security through substantial investments and strategic initiatives.
Key achievements include the liberation of over 4,600 hostages, neutralization of more than 9,300 hostile elements, and the arrest of over 7,000 terrorists, bandits, and criminals. Additionally, security forces have recovered over 4,800 assorted weapons and more than 93,900 rounds of ammunition since June 2023.
The Nigerian Air Force has bolstered its capabilities with the acquisition of five new aircraft: two Diamond 62 surveillance planes, two T-129 ATAK helicopters, and a King Air 360 ER. These additions have strengthened the nation’s efforts against banditry and terrorism. Furthermore, the establishment of a 2,200-member Mines Marshal Corps aims to secure mining sites and curb illegal mining activities.
A significant increase in the annual recruitment of police personnel, from 10,000 to 30,000, underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing internal security. Efforts to combat illegal oil refining have led to the deactivation of over 120 sites, seizure of 90 wooden boats, and the arrest of over 70 suspects and 14 vessels, facilitated by new advanced patrol vessels.
The Federal Government also launched the N50 billion Pulako Initiative, targeting Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, Kaduna, Benue, and Kebbi states. This initiative focuses on conflict resolution, community reconstruction, and support for farmers and herders to combat banditry and cattle rustling. Vice President Kashim Shettima inaugurated the Steering Committee for this initiative on February 13, 2024.
President Tinubu’s comprehensive security strategies are designed to address the root causes of insecurity, fostering a safer environment for all Nigerians.
Maintain Combat Readiness: Ensuring the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) are prepared for combat on land, sea, and air.
Balanced Force: Maintaining a proper balance in personnel and arms to meet internal and external security demands.
Personnel Welfare: Providing for the welfare, discipline, healthcare, deployment, and development of AFN personnel to boost morale.
Defence Industry: Enhancing the capabilities and sophistication of the country’s defence industries to achieve self-reliance in defence acquisition.
Continental Security: Promoting a collective defence system through bilateral, sub-regional, and continental cooperation.
Global Peace: Contributing to global peace and stability through the United Nations (UN), African Union (AU), and Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
National Defence Policy: Responsible for the formulation and execution of the Nigerian National Defence Policy (NNDP).
For a comprehensive overview of the Ministry’s achievements in the past year under the leadership of Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, CON, mni, please refer to the detailed report below.
