President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will overcome terrorism and banditry, describing the security challenges as unacceptable and alien to the nation’s values.
The President gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while declaring open the Second National Economic Council (NEC) Conference at the State House Conference Centre. He said his government remains committed to strengthening security forces and restoring peace to communities affected by violence.
Tinubu noted that insecurity has remained a major concern for his administration, stressing that it also poses a serious threat to economic growth. According to him, decisive action and collective resolve are required to address the challenge.
“We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry. It is not part of our culture; it is foreign to us,” the President said, adding that the government is exploring further ways to reinforce the nation’s security architecture.
He commended governors, particularly those of Borno, Katsina and Kaduna states, for their efforts in defending lives, property and national stability amid persistent security threats.
The President also described insecurity as a major economic hindrance, calling for urgent and coordinated efforts by all stakeholders to find lasting solutions.
Welcoming governors, ministers, lawmakers, development partners and private sector leaders to the two-day conference themed “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030,” Tinubu said the gathering reflected a shared commitment to national progress.
He praised the National Economic Council, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for serving as a key platform for policy coordination and strategic dialogue, describing it as central to fiscal federalism and economic governance in Nigeria.
Highlighting achievements of his administration, Tinubu said recent economic reforms have helped stabilise the economy and restore investor confidence. He added that Nigeria’s monetary policy reforms have gained international recognition, commending the Central Bank of Nigeria under Governor Yemi Cardoso for restoring confidence in the system.
The President noted that state and local governments now receive increased and more predictable federal allocations, enabling them to pay salaries, invest in infrastructure and deliver social services.
He said his administration has prioritised infrastructure development in transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing and irrigation, alongside expanded social investment and human capital programmes targeting vulnerable households, youth, women and small businesses.
Tinubu explained that the Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030 represents the next phase of Nigeria’s development, anchored on inclusive, resilient and environmentally sustainable growth.
According to him, the plan focuses on economic diversification, human capital development, subnational competitiveness, private sector-led growth and climate resilience, stressing that its success depends largely on effective implementation at state and local government levels.
The President expressed confidence that outcomes of the conference would drive agricultural diversification, including dairy farming, livestock investment and ranching, adding that while the challenges ahead are significant, the opportunities remain historic.
