New Security Measures Will Soon Deliver Results, Tinubu Assures CAN

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerians that the ongoing restructuring of the nation’s security architecture will soon begin to produce positive outcomes.

The President gave the assurance during a meeting with a delegation of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), led by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, at his Lagos residence.

This was disclosed in a statement issued on Friday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga.

Commitment to State and Community Policing

President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to establishing state and community policing as part of efforts to address Nigeria’s security challenges.

He urged CAN to collaborate with his government in achieving the nation’s collective aspirations, noting that some of the security measures being implemented require time to mature.

“The mood of the nation is peaceful, although our ungoverned spaces are vast. The challenge is real, but we will surmount it. We are a very religious nation and prayer warriors. We need your focus, vigilance, and cooperation,” the President said.

Tinubu explained that community and state policing would become a reality once the National Assembly completes the necessary legislative processes. He also highlighted challenges associated with procuring military hardware.

“Military equipment is difficult to replace. It is expensive and not readily available off the shelf. Our order for four attack helicopters from the United States will take some time to arrive, and we have also approached Turkey for assistance,” he added.

Government Not Relenting on Security

While acknowledging that delays in the delivery of military assets may affect public perception, the President stressed that his administration remains fully committed to restoring peace and prosperity across the country.

He said the government would not relent in its efforts despite the guerrilla tactics employed by bandits and insurgents.

Commenting on the recent abduction and subsequent release of schoolchildren in Niger and Kebbi states, Tinubu called for collective vigilance.

“The rhetoric around how the children were released or what happened to the kidnappers is secondary. The end justifies the means,” he said.

CAN Pledges Support

In his response, CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh assured the President of the association’s unwavering support.

“You are our President. The Church has no choice but to support you and your administration,” Okoh stated.

He also acknowledged the receipt of palliatives regularly extended to the association during religious festivals and beyond, commending the President for his commitment to addressing Nigeria’s socio-economic and security challenges.

“We recognise that the task before you is daunting, but we are confident in your sagacity. The Christian community is committed to your success,” he said.

Okoh further noted that the President’s approach had strengthened the relationship between the government and the Church.

“Your commitment has closed the gap between the government and the Church. This is unprecedented, and we are willing to work with you because we have seen genuine intentions,” he added.

However, he appealed to the President to always engage CAN through its established structures across the country’s 774 local government areas.

Delegation Members

Other members of the CAN delegation included the Vice President of CAN, Rev. Dr Stephen Panya Baba; President of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria, Bishop Francis Wale Oke; representatives of the Organisation of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), the Catholic and Methodist blocs; and the CAN Chairman in Lagos State, Bishop Stephen Adegbite.

Background: Recent Security Incidents

Nigeria has faced a series of security challenges in recent times. In November, terrorists abducted 315 pupils from St Mary’s Private Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

Two days later, 50 of the abducted pupils escaped from captivity and reunited with their families. An additional 100 pupils regained their freedom two weeks later.