The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity, and Justice is compelled to respond to the Yoruba Union’s recent statement warning Nigerians against supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his allies. Their claim that this administration has failed to secure Nigeria against terrorists and hunger, is not only misleading but ignores verifiable progress made under President Tinubu’s watch.
BUILDING ON A TROUBLED LEGACY, DELIVERING REAL RESULTS
President Tinubu assumed office barely two years ago, inheriting deep-seated security challenges and an overstretched military. Yet, unlike in the past, when travelling from Abuja to Kaduna by road or rail was fraught with danger, Nigerians now move across key highways and communities with renewed confidence. Strategic military operations, improved inter-agency coordination, and decisive leadership have restored security in areas once dominated by insurgents and bandits.
TERRORISM: A GLOBAL CHALLENGE, A NIGERIAN RESPONSE
Terrorism is not unique to Nigeria; it is a global menace affecting even the world’s most developed nations. What distinguishes the Tinubu administration is its unwavering commitment to fight terror on multiple fronts military, economic, and social.
GIANT STRIDES UNDER PRESIDENT TINUBU’S LEADERSHIP
Key achievements in the fight against terrorism and insecurity include:
- Over 13,500 terrorists neutralised: Combined operations by the Nigerian Armed Forces and allied agencies have significantly reduced terrorist activity.
- 120,000 terrorists and bandits surrendered: Large-scale surrenders have weakened terror groups and reduced recruitment.
- 17,000 displaced persons reunited with families: Rehabilitation programmes are restoring stability to conflict-affected communities.
- Over 11,000 illegal weapons recovered: Robust arms recovery operations have crippled insurgent capabilities.
- Over 100 terror financiers prosecuted and convicted: The administration has disrupted funding channels that sustain terrorism.
- Enhanced military capacity: Strategic procurement of modern equipment, drones, and vehicles has strengthened the Armed Forces’ operational effectiveness.
- Improved intelligence networks: Partnerships with local communities and international allies have boosted intelligence sharing, pre-empting attacks before they occur.
- Clearing of Terrorist enclaves: Sustained military operations have led to the clearance of terrorist camps in Sambisa Forest, Lake Chad, Yuwe and around the Mandara Mountains.
- Rescue of Hostages/Kidnap Victims: Over 4,000 hostages have so far been freed. In Kaduna, 300 school children were released without ransom.
- More recruitment into the Nigerian Police Force: The government has sustained the recruitment of over 10,000 Nigerians into the Nigerian Police to boost policing in the country.
STREATEGIC PROGRAMMES/INITIATIVES:
- Pulako Initiative: Under this initiative, the administration has committed about 50 billion Naira, targeting states like Katsina, Zamfara, Sokoto, Niger, Kaduna, Benue and Kebbi, among others, to address issues of banditry, farmer-herders conflict, as well as helping community reconstruction.
- Regional/Continental Cooperation Strategy: The declaration of the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) is to facilitate intelligence sharing, operational coordination and capacity building across Africa.
A HOLISTIC SECURITY APPROACH
Beyond battlefield successes, President Tinubu has prioritised community engagement, youth empowerment, and economic revitalisation as tools to undermine radicalisation and create alternatives to violence. This multifaceted strategy reflects an understanding that security is not merely about arms but also about opportunity, inclusion, and trust between government and citizens.
A CALL FOR UNITY AND SUPPORT
It is, therefore, unfair and unpatriotic to dismiss these achievements as failure. The Yoruba Union’s narrative disregards the sacrifices of Nigeria’s gallant troops and the administration’s clear results in securing our nation. Terrorism remains a work in progress globally, but President Tinubu’s government has shown the resolve, capacity, and vision to defeat it.
We call on Nigerians to unite behind the administration’s efforts, reject divisive rhetoric, and contribute constructively to the shared goal of lasting peace and national security.
SIGNED:
Comrade James Okoronkwo
National Coordinator,
Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace, Security, Good Governance, Equity, and Justice