Nothing Troubles Me More Gravely Than Insecurity In Nigeria – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has described insecurity as the most pressing challenge confronting Nigeria, particularly the northern region, warning that the nation cannot achieve meaningful progress unless peace is restored.

Speaking on Saturday in Kaduna at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the launch of its Endowment Fund, Tinubu — represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas — said rebuilding trust and safeguarding vulnerable communities must be treated as urgent national priorities.

“Nothing troubles me more gravely than the security crisis bedevilling Nigeria, especially Northern Nigeria,” the president said as quoted by the News Agency of Nigeria.

“We cannot prosper when one limb of the national body is paralysed.”

Tinubu noted that his administration inherited complex security challenges but is confronting them “with urgency and determination,” adding that efforts are underway to eliminate terrorist and bandit groups operating across the North.

Beyond security, the president expressed confidence in the region’s economic future.

He pointed to ongoing oil exploration activities in Kolmani and other northern fields and highlighted major infrastructure projects — such as the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway — that are being accelerated for completion.

Tinubu urged the northern leaders to speak boldly and honestly about the region’s realities, stressing that leadership must be anchored on compassion and accountability.

“We fail the day we sleep comfortably while millions sleep with empty bellies, the day fear becomes a permanent companion for travellers,” he warned.

He acknowledged that decades of dysfunction had weakened unity in the North but said the diverse gathering at the ACF anniversary reflected a renewed commitment to solidarity.

Tinubu praised the forum for 25 years of advocacy, describing the Silver Jubilee as a testament to courage, integrity and principled leadership.

The president called on leaders across all sectors to recommit to the founding values of the ACF, insisting that the stability of the North remains central to Nigeria’s peace, security and development.