President Tinubu vows no mercy for terror financiers, outlines security and economic reforms
via Punch Nigeria5 min read
President Bola Tinubu, in his Democracy Day address, declared that his administration would show no mercy to those who finance terrorism and enable violence against Nigerians. He issued an ultimatum to bandits, kidnappers, and terror sponsors to surrender or face the full force of the Nigerian state, noting that over 13,000 terrorists had been neutralized in the past year. Despite a significant decline in terror-related deaths since 2015, the President acknowledged that the continued captivity of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states dampened the celebration. Tinubu highlighted increased security allocations in the 2026 budget and the approval for recruiting over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military personnel to address security demands. He urged national unity against criminality, rejecting ethnic or religious framing. Addressing the power sector, Tinubu detailed reforms including the Electricity Act, a N4tn bond to settle debts, and efforts to deploy off-grid power. Economically, he reported increased federation revenues, improved fiscal transparency, and growth in non-oil exports, while acknowledging persistent hardship and committing to reducing inflation, expanding food production, and creating jobs.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
England midfielder Jude Bellingham believes the national team is more connected heading into this summer's World Cup compared to their Euro 2024 campaign. Bellingham, who played a key role in England reaching the Euro 2024 final, reflected on the squad's experience, stating that lessons were learned from the tournament. He noted that during the Euros, some aspects off the pitch were handled poorly, and the group did not feel as connected as it could have, partly due to expectations. Despite reaching the final, England's performances often faced scrutiny, and Bellingham mentioned that even when winning, there wasn't a feeling of happiness. The 22-year-old emphasized the need for the squad to balance a winning mentality with enjoying success. Looking ahead to the World Cup, Bellingham highlighted the importance of every squad member feeling valued and included, stressing that everyone must be ready and feel like a significant part of the team. England will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Arlington, Texas, next Wednesday.
President Bola Tinubu announced the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies, Kaduna, to the General Shehu Musa Yar'Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology. This decision, made on Friday, honors the late military officer's contributions to Nigeria's transition to civilian rule and his vision of national partnership. The renaming was part of President Tinubu's Democracy Day address, recognizing architects of Nigeria's democratic journey. The President also announced national honors for over 30 democracy heroes and soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle, including posthumous recognitions for Dr. Arthur Nwankwo and Ben Charles-Obi, with the complete list to be released soon.
Must ReadPresident Bola Tinubu stated that the abduction of schoolchildren in Oyo and Borno states has dampened this year鈥檚 Democracy Day celebrations. He reaffirmed his administration's commitment to ensuring their safe return and enhancing Nigeria's security. During his national address for Nigeria's 27th Democracy Day, his fourth since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu emphasized that "Democracy without security is a mirage." He highlighted that his administration has declared a security emergency and approved the recruitment of over 50,000 new police officers and thousands of military personnel. The President also commended the armed forces, police, intelligence services, traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads for their contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts.