President Bola Tinubu has issued a stern ultimatum to terrorists and bandits responsible for instability in Nigeria, urging them to surrender or face death at the hands of government forces. The warning was conveyed during the 1st News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) Annual International Lecture in Abuja, themed “Insecurity in the Sahel (2008-2024): Dissecting Nigeria’s Challenges Genesis, Impacts, and Options. “National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, representing the president, detailed the administration’s approach to combat security threats using both military (kinetic) and non-military (non-kinetic) strategies.

These strategies are key components of Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at improving security, economic development, and the well-being of Nigerians. Specifically addressing groups like Boko Haram, bandits, and kidnappers, Tinubu highlighted the government’s progress, noting a significant reduction in kidnapping for ransom.

He warned criminals to abandon their illicit activities or face dire consequences, saying, “If you want to live, leave it this way. If you want to live your life, stop it.” Tinubu also praised the restored peace in northern communities, which has allowed for the return of displaced residents and boosted food production.

The president acknowledged the broader security challenges in the Sahel, attributing them to factors like climate change, food insecurity, and extremism. He stressed Nigeria’s crucial role in ensuring regional security and emphasized the importance of cooperation through ECOWAS to tackle shared issues.

In closing, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to job creation, infrastructure development, and social services for the benefit of all Nigerians. He promised continued support for the armed forces to ensure they have the necessary resources to combat insecurity, calling on citizens to unite in building a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.