Securing lives of Nigerians non-negotiable, key to economic growth, Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has declared that securing the lives of Nigerians is a non-negotiable priority, forming the fundamental bedrock for achieving the nation's economic ambitions and lasting prosperity. Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the graduation ceremony for participants of the National Defence College Course 34 in Abuja, Tinubu asserted that the safety and protection of citizens' lives are paramount for any meaningful business expansion.

Tinubu highlighted the government's commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces and security agencies, which are actively confronting terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, piracy, and organized criminality. He assured that the government would provide necessary equipment, training, resources, and institutional support to enable these forces to carry out their constitutional duties effectively. The President linked national stability directly to economic opportunity, stating, "Peace creates room for enterprise, and enterprise enlarges the citizen’s stake in peace. When communities recover security, opportunity must follow, because stability grows where people can work, trade, learn and hope."

Aligning with the theme of a recent lecture by former President Goodluck Jonathan, Tinubu noted that Africa's long-term security increasingly depends on economic transformation. He argued that industrialization, driven by initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area, is crucial for inclusive growth, reducing structural vulnerability, and enhancing the continent's bargaining power. Nigeria remains committed to fostering a peaceful, prosperous, and integrated Africa.

Domestically, Tinubu outlined ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at building a more productive and diversified economy. These efforts include improving conditions for enterprise, encouraging private investment, promoting local value addition, and expanding infrastructure in transportation, energy, and digital connectivity. The government is also strengthening capacities in key sectors such as agriculture, solid minerals, manufacturing, technology, and the defense industry.