PRESS STATEMENT

June 6, 2026

BAT-IG CALLS FOR TOTAL NATIONAL MOBILIZATION, SAYS TINUBU CANNOT FIGHT NIGERIA'S SECURITY CHALLENGES ALONE

The Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG) has called for greater collaboration among all tiers of government, security agencies, traditional institutions and citizens in addressing Nigeria's security challenges.

Speaking on the current security situation in the country, the Convener of BAT-IG, Honourable Bamidele Atoyebi, said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is confronting a complex security challenge involving terrorism, banditry, kidnapping-for-ransom networks and other criminal elements operating across different parts of the country.

According to Atoyebi, the President has demonstrated commitment to strengthening national security through increased support for the armed forces, improved welfare for military personnel, the establishment of Forest Guards, the creation of specialised anti-bandit operations, and ongoing efforts toward security decentralisation, including the proposed establishment of state police.

He stressed that security must not be treated as the sole responsibility of the Federal Government, noting that state governments and local government administrations must take greater ownership of security within their jurisdictions.

"The battle against insecurity is like confronting a buffalo order of battle. It is too large for one institution or one level of government to handle alone. Every stakeholder must play a role," he said.

BAT-IG urged governors and local government chairmen to devote more resources to intelligence gathering, community policing initiatives, surveillance technology and grassroots security architecture.

The group also called on citizens to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements, unfamiliar criminal elements, illegal camps and other security threats to relevant authorities.

Atoyebi emphasised the need for stronger community engagement, public sensitization and the establishment of effective communication channels between residents and security agencies to improve intelligence gathering and rapid response.

The group further highlighted concerns over the proliferation of arms within the region, citing international reports that indicate weapons from conflict zones in North Africa and the Sahel have found their way into Nigeria and are being used by criminal groups.

BAT-IG reiterated its support for policies aimed at ending open grazing, strengthening border security, enhancing protection of ungoverned spaces and accelerating the establishment of state policing structures.

The group also advocated a more robust forest security framework capable of preventing bandits and terrorists from using forests as operational bases.

While acknowledging the progress recorded by security agencies in recent years, BAT-IG maintained that lasting success can only be achieved through coordinated action involving federal, state and local authorities working alongside communities.

"Security is a collective responsibility. No governor, local government chairman, traditional ruler, community leader, or citizen can afford to be indifferent. Nigeria's security challenge requires an all hands on deck national response," Atoyebi stated.

BAT-IG therefore called on all Nigerians to support ongoing security efforts, remain vigilant and work together to protect their communities and safeguard the nation's future.

Signed:

Honourable Bamidele Atoyebi

Convener

Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ideological Group (BAT-IG)