President unveils sweeping measures to combat killings and kidnappings, allocates record ₦5.41 trillion to defence in 2026 budget

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared a nationwide security emergency, rolling out a series of aggressive measures aimed at curbing escalating killings, kidnappings, and violent crimes across the country.

In his Democracy Day address, the President acknowledged that this year’s celebration was overshadowed by the recent abductions of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno States. He, however, reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore safety and protect citizens.

As part of the new security push, Tinubu approved the recruitment of over 50,000 additional police officers, alongside thousands of new military personnel, to reinforce internal security operations nationwide.

He also pointed to the 2026 national budget, which earmarks a record ₦5.41 trillion for defence and security—the highest allocation in Nigeria’s history—as a clear demonstration of the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

“Democracy without security is a mirage,” Tinubu stated. “Our administration is prepared to do even more to ensure the safety of our people.”