President Bola Tinubu has announced that Nigeria has achieved an 81% reduction in terrorism-related deaths since 2015, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s security landscape. The President made this declaration during his 2026 Democracy Day address on Friday, where he addressed pressing national security concerns, including recent abductions in Oyo and Borno states.
Outlining ongoing military operations and expanded security measures across the country, Tinubu disclosed that more than 13,000 terrorists have been neutralized within the past year. He acknowledged that recent security incidents had dampened the national mood but emphasized that they had not weakened the government’s resolve to combat insecurity. According to the President, “Terror-related deaths are down by 81% since 2015. Over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year.”
Tinubu further stated that his administration has declared a security emergency, approved the recruitment of over 50,000 police officers and thousands of military personnel, and allocated N5.41 trillion in the 2026 budget to defence and security—described as the largest allocation in Nigeria’s history. The statement comes amid renewed public concern over kidnappings and insurgent activity in parts of northern and southwestern Nigeria, particularly incidents in Oyo and Borno states.
The government’s emphasis on expanded recruitment and increased defence spending reflects ongoing pressure to address both persistent insurgency and emerging security threats across multiple regions. Last month, the President deployed the country’s top security chiefs to Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area. He also approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security in the state. According to the Presidency, the move aims to correct years of lopsided personnel allocation that left many rural and semi-urban communities without adequate policing.
In a related context, the administration continues to monitor broader economic and technological shifts. For instance, Hadi Sirika Used his tenure to advocate for aviation reforms, while Openai Considers Ai advancements that could reshape global industries. Meanwhile, Vfd Connect: Direct payment solutions are gaining traction in Nigeria’s digital economy, and Nigeria Evacuates First batch of citizens from conflict zones as part of ongoing diplomatic efforts. Additionally, Nigerians Expect Inflation to moderate as fiscal policies take effect, though security spending remains a priority.
According to SBM Intelligence’s latest report, a total of 4,722 Nigerians were kidnapped in 997 incidents, while 762 people lost their lives in abduction-related violence. The President’s address underscores a concerted effort to reverse these trends through robust security investments and targeted operations, even as challenges persist in vulnerable regions.
