President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Under Fire for ‘Community Policing Agenda

Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared that Nigeria must immediately adopt community-based security committees across all states and local councils to curb the rising wave of insecurity. He explained that local participation remains the strongest pillar for intelligence-gathering, rapid response, and early detection of threats before they escalate to violence. According to him, partnership between traditional institutions, community leaders, and security agencies would deepen trust and improve operational success nationwide.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu stated that the Federal Government would continue to empower security formations but insisted that local structures must complement national efforts to produce meaningful, long-term results. He emphasized that citizens know their communities best, and without community-to-government collaboration, Nigeria would continue to recycle security challenges. His position, he maintained, aligns with his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda for peace, stability, and a thriving economy.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila at the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) meeting in Abuja, urged monarchs and community stakeholders to take ownership of grassroots safety initiatives. He said his government recognises the influence and moral authority of traditional rulers and will strengthen partnerships with them to restore calm in troubled regions of the country.

BOLA AHMED TINUBU HIGHLIGHTS ROLE OF TRADITIONAL RULERS IN NATIONAL PEACE

Bola Ahmed Tinubu told the council that traditional rulers must remain central figures in peace-building, mediation, and community intelligence. He described them as custodians of culture and trusted voices in their domains, capable of promoting unity and reducing hostility through dialogue. He further stressed that a secure Nigeria requires both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, and royal institutions must be key drivers of reconciliatory engagement.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu noted that the contributions of respected leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar, remain vital in calming tensions and fostering inter-communal understanding. He commended the Sultan and other monarchs for continuously advocating peace and working with government to address security concerns. Their role, he said, is indispensable, especially in regions where local consent is crucial to gaining trust.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu echoed the message of unity shared at the meeting by the Sultan of Sokoto and Kebbi State Governor, Dr. Nasir Idris, who also urged citizens to support security agencies. He aligned with their call for cooperation, saying peace cannot be achieved when communities isolate themselves from the security process. He stressed that safety, development, and national prosperity are collective responsibilities that demand shared commitment.

BOLA AHMED TINUBU REITERATES THAT PEACE IS KEY TO NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Bola Ahmed Tinubu emphasized that no nation can flourish in an atmosphere of fear, conflict, or division. He maintained that security is the backbone of investment, education, agriculture, tourism, and economic growth, and therefore must be treated as a joint national priority. By building community-security alliances, he said Nigeria can create a stable environment where families thrive and businesses grow.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu reiterated that the Federal Government will continue to support the military, police, and other security institutions with equipment, technology, and welfare. However, he clarified that government force alone cannot guarantee peace if communities fail to offer intelligence, vigilance, and cooperation. He called on youths, religious leaders, women groups, and civil society actors to join the campaign for safer neighbourhoods.

Bola Ahmed Tinubu vowed that his administration will not relent in its mission to rebuild a peaceful and united nation. He urged Nigerians to set aside ethnic, political, and religious suspicions and stand together against crime and violence. With unity and grassroots participation, he concluded, the nation can defeat insecurity and secure a stable future.