Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed confidence that the country will soon overcome its security challenges, assuring citizens that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to tackle insecurity across the nation.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti on Saturday during an engagement with traditional rulers as part of her one-day working visit to Ekiti State, Mrs Tinubu said President Bola Tinubu remains committed to safeguarding lives and property through strengthened internal security measures and strategic international partnerships.
Responding to concerns raised by traditional rulers over rising cases of kidnapping, banditry and killings, as well as calls for a review of existing kidnapping laws and the establishment of state police, the First Lady acknowledged the severity of the security situation but urged Nigerians not to lose hope.
She revealed that the Federal Government was collaborating with countries such as the United States and other developed nations to combat criminal activities and restore peace across the country.
According to her, some of those behind the wave of insecurity are foreign elements, adding that ongoing efforts to address the challenge could not be fully disclosed for security reasons.
“It is disheartening that we have this insecurity. A lot of foreign countries are helping our country. The US and some other developed countries are assisting us in this matter. No matter what happens, we shall overcome. Nigeria is too great to be intimidated,” she said.
Mrs Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and prayerful, stressing that the administration is working tirelessly to bring lasting solutions to the security challenges confronting the nation.
She commended traditional rulers for their continued support for President Tinubu and Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji, describing their backing as a major source of encouragement for both leaders in delivering good governance.
The First Lady also highlighted the impact of her Renewed Hope Initiative in Ekiti State, disclosing that the programme had established a state-of-the-art Information and Communication Technology (ICT) centre at Ekiti State University to enhance digital education among youths.
She further announced a N200 million scholarship endowment for undergraduates of the institution aimed at expanding educational opportunities for students.
In addition, Mrs Tinubu said the initiative had empowered 2,000 traders with grants of N50,000 each to support their businesses, while also providing assistance to elderly persons, vulnerable groups and people living with disabilities to improve their standard of living.