As FG Touts Security Gains, Economic Turnaround
By AWC State Affairs Desk
Abuja — The Federal Government has reaffirmed its resolve to protect Nigerians from terrorism, banditry and all forms of violent crimes, pledging to deploy global best practices, intelligence-led operations and coordinated inter-agency responses to secure lives, property and national assets.
This assurance was given during a media briefing by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, who said the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is combining hard security measures with economic reforms to address both the symptoms and root causes of insecurity.
Security: Intelligence, Technology, Coordination
According to Idris, Nigeria’s security architecture has been strengthened through:
- Improved intelligence sharing among the Armed Forces, intelligence agencies and paramilitary services
- Technology-driven surveillance and tracking, aligned with international counter-terrorism standards
- Joint operations that have disrupted terror cells, degraded bandit networks and reclaimed territories previously under threat
He noted that recent operations across the North-East, North-West and North-Central have resulted in the neutralisation of high-value terror and bandit commanders, the rescue of abducted victims, and the recovery of arms and ammunition — outcomes he described as evidence that “the state is regaining operational control.”
Economy and Security: Two Sides of One Coin
The minister stressed that security gains are being reinforced by macro-economic stabilization, arguing that economic despair fuels crime while growth undercuts recruitment into violent groups.
Citing official government and Central Bank briefings, Idris highlighted key economic indicators recorded under the Tinubu administration:
- GDP growth sustained in positive territory in 2025, driven largely by services, agriculture and a gradual rebound in manufacturing
- Trade surplus, buoyed by stronger non-oil exports and improved trade balances
- Inflation moderation in Q3 2025, reflecting tighter monetary coordination, improved food supply logistics and targeted interventions
- Foreign reserves increase, supported by enhanced FX management, diaspora inflows and higher export receipts
- Infrastructure expansion, with major investments in roads, rail, power, ports and housing, creating jobs and stimulating local economies
“These numbers are not abstract,” Idris said. “They translate into jobs, purchasing power, and social stability — all of which are critical to long-term national security.”
Counter-Terrorism Meets Global Standards
The minister emphasized that Nigeria is aligning its counter-terrorism framework with international best practices, including:
- Financial intelligence to cut off terror financing
- Border security collaboration to curb cross-border arms and fighter movements
- Strategic partnerships with regional and global allies for training, intelligence and capacity building
He added that Nigeria’s approach mirrors models used in countries that have successfully rolled back insurgencies by integrating military pressure, economic recovery and community engagement.
Renewed Hope, Renewed Resolve
Idris concluded by reaffirming the administration’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that security and prosperity are mutually reinforcing.
“The message is clear,” he said. “This government will not negotiate the safety of Nigerians. We will protect our people, grow the economy, and deny criminals — whether terrorists or bandits — the space to operate.”
As Nigeria navigates complex security and economic challenges, the government insists that the combined gains in counter-terrorism operations and macro-economic indicators signal a country steadily reclaiming stability — and charting a path toward sustainable peace and growth.
