President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed that the security and welfare of all Nigerians remain top priorities for his government. Speaking at the 10th Memorial Anniversary Celebration of former Kogi governor, Late Prince Abubakar Audu, in Lokoja, Mr. Tinubu emphasized the administration’s commitment to addressing national challenges. The President, represented by Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, highlighted various measures taken to deliver on these priorities, including the recent declaration of a state of emergency on national security.

This declaration, according to Mr. Tinubu, underscores the gravity with which his government views the security challenge, characterizing it as a “declaration of war against all forms of insecurity.” To combat this, the administration has begun expanding the capacity of the armed forces and security agencies, focusing on advanced weaponry and intelligence capabilities.

Mr. Tinubu also addressed the misconception of Nigeria as a religiously intolerant nation, describing it as a “gross distortion of reality.” He emphasized the country’s diversity, where people of different faiths coexist peacefully, and pledged to showcase this true picture to the world.

The President outlined his administration’s efforts to modernize the livestock sector, empower youths, and expand infrastructure to boost the economy and deliver democratic dividends. This includes a comprehensive initiative to modernize the livestock industry, creating large-scale managing schemes and improving animal husbandry to enhance the livestock value chain.

Through social investment programs, the government aims to support vulnerable populations, fund small and medium enterprises, and equip youths with skills to compete in the global economy. An unprecedented expansion of national infrastructure, including modernizing roads, rail networks, and power infrastructure, is also underway.

The event honored Late Prince Abubakar Audu’s legacy, with the presentation of a book titled “Prince Abubakar Audu: A Legacy of Visionary Leadership.” The Board of Trustees of the Prince Abubakar Audu Leadership Foundation was also inaugurated, with fundraising efforts to support the foundation’s takeoff. Mr. Tinubu acknowledged Audu’s significant contribution to Nigeria’s democratic journey, having carved out a vision for Kogi and laid the foundation for the country’s enduring democratic path.