President Bola Tinubu on Monday said banditry and terrorism run contrary to Nigeria’s values and remain a serious threat to the country’s economic progress, pledging fresh efforts to tackle the growing insecurity.
Speaking at the opening of the two-day National Economic Council (NEC) conference at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, the President assured Nigerians that his administration would reinforce security operations to curb the activities of armed groups across the country.
Tinubu said the persistent attacks by bandits and terrorists have left many citizens living in fear, stressing that the government is determined to end the violence.
He described the situation as unacceptable, noting that such acts are alien to the nation’s culture and must be addressed urgently because of their negative impact on economic growth and stability.
His remarks come amid renewed violence in parts of the country, including recent deadly attacks in Kwara and Katsina states that claimed scores of lives and displaced several residents.
At the event, the President acknowledged the efforts of some state governors in confronting insecurity, particularly those of Borno and Katsina, whom he praised for their commitment to protecting lives and property.
Tinubu also linked the security challenges to ongoing reforms in the livestock sector, saying structured ranching and increased investment in modern animal husbandry could help reduce recurring clashes between farmers and herders.
He expressed confidence that the NEC conference would produce practical resolutions on dairy farming, ranch development and broader agricultural diversification, describing the reforms as critical to both economic growth and peacebuilding.
The President recalled that he had earlier directed Vice President Kashim Shettima and the council to develop a comprehensive plan to modernise the livestock industry, including the rehabilitation of grazing areas into organised ranches.
Following that directive, the council established a Livestock Development Committee to drive the implementation of the reforms nationwide.
Monday’s conference, presided over by Vice President Shettima, brings together state governors, federal officials, development partners and private-sector leaders. Convened by the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, the meeting is focused on strategies for inclusive growth, fiscal coordination and sustainable development.
Officials say discussions over the two days will centre on strengthening cooperation between federal and state governments while addressing key economic and security concerns affecting the country.
