President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency and ordered the immediate recruitment of an additional 120,000 officers into the Nigerian Army and Nigeria Police Force, bringing the total combined target to 550,000 personnel.
In a strongly worded national broadcast released from the State House on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, the President outlined far-reaching measures to combat the deteriorating security situation across the country.
Key Highlights of the Presidential Declaration:
Massive Recruitment Drive:
The Nigerian Army and Nigeria Police Force will recruit an additional 120,000 officers combined. The police alone will recruit 120,000 new officers, pushing the total national policing strength toward 550,000.
Use of NYSC Camps as Training Grounds:
The President has authorized the temporary conversion of various National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camps into police and military training depots.
Redeployment and Crash Training of VIP Protection Officers:
Officers currently withdrawn for VIP guard duties are to immediately undergo crash training and be redeployed to frontline security operations in troubled areas.
Immediate Deployment of Forest Guards:
The Department of State Services (DSS) has been directed to instantly deploy all already-trained forest guards to flush out terrorists and bandits lurking in forests nationwide.
Release of Abducted Students:
The President commended security agencies for securing the release of the 24 students abducted in Kebbi State and the 38 worshippers kidnapped in Kwara State, pledging that efforts are ongoing to rescue remaining victims, including students of Catholic School in Niger State.
Tribute to Fallen Heroes:
President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to Brigadier-General Musa Uba and other gallant soldiers who paid the ultimate price in recent operations.
Call for National Unity and Vigilance:
Nigerians were urged never to succumb to fear or despair, to report suspicious activities, and to cooperate fully with security agencies.
Excerpts from the President’s Full Statement:
“My fellow Nigerians, this is a national emergency, and we are responding by deploying more boots on the ground, especially in security-challenged areas. The times require all hands on deck. As Nigerians, we should all get involved in securing our nation.”
“The officers being withdrawn from VIP guard duties should undergo crash training to debrief them and deliver more efficient police services when deployed to security-challenged areas of the country.”
“Those who want to test our resolve should never mistake our restraint for weakness. This administration has the courage and determination to keep the country safe and ensure our citizens live in peace.”
“Fellow Compatriots, I urge you not to give in to fear and never succumb to despair. Let’s stand together in purpose and strength to defend our freedom and values.”
The President also directed the National Assembly to review laws allowing states that need them to establish state police, and charged state governments to rethink the establishment of boarding schools in remote areas without adequate security.
He further announced the creation of a new Livestock Ministry to tackle the perennial farmer-herder clashes, emphasizing ranching as the sustainable path forward.
The statement was signed:
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR
Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Aso Rock Villa
November 26, 2025
ReportNaija will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as this national security emergency unfolds.

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