By Ayo Ayodele
President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will overcome terrorism and banditry, describing the security challenges as unacceptable and contrary to the nation’s values.
The President gave the assurance on Monday while declaring open the Second National Economic Council (NEC) Conference at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja. He said the Federal Government remains fully committed to strengthening the nation’s security architecture and restoring peace to affected communities.
According to Tinubu, insecurity remains a major obstacle to economic growth, stressing that urgent and collective action is required to address the challenge.
“I assure you we will win with determination and resilience. We will overcome this unacceptable terrorism and banditry. It is not part of our culture,” the President said.
He disclosed plans to introduce seven zones of mechanisation as part of broader efforts to boost productivity and enhance national security, adding that the fight against insecurity has remained a top priority of his administration.
The President commended the governors of Borno, Katsina and Kaduna states, among others, for their efforts in defending lives, property and the nation’s collective freedom.
Welcoming governors, ministers, lawmakers, development partners and private sector leaders to the two-day conference, themed “Delivering Inclusive Growth and Sustainable National Development: The Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030,” Tinubu said the gathering underscored a shared commitment to national development.
He praised the National Economic Council, chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, for serving as a vital platform for fiscal coordination and strategic policy dialogue, describing it as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s economic governance.
Reviewing his administration’s performance, Tinubu said ongoing economic reforms had helped stabilise the economy and restore global confidence, particularly in monetary policy.
He commended the Central Bank of Nigeria under Governor Yemi Cardoso for restoring credibility to the country’s monetary framework.
The President noted that increased and more predictable federal allocations to states and local governments had improved their capacity to pay salaries, invest in infrastructure and deliver social services.
He added that his administration has prioritised infrastructure development in transportation, power, digital connectivity, housing and irrigation, alongside expanded social investment programmes targeting vulnerable households, women, youths and small businesses.
Tinubu explained that the Renewed Hope National Development Plan 2026–2030 represents the next phase of Nigeria’s development journey, with a focus on inclusive growth, economic diversification, human capital development, private sector-led growth and climate resilience.
He stressed that the success of the plan would depend largely on effective implementation at state and local government levels, urging stakeholders to move from policy declarations to concrete, data-driven action.
The President expressed confidence that resolutions from the conference would further advance agricultural diversification, including dairy farming, livestock investment and ranching.