Tinubu Moves to Curb Insecurity with Nationwide Ranching Programme
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate establishment of ranches across conflict-prone areas in the country as part of renewed efforts to curb perennial clashes between farmers and herders.
Speaking at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Wednesday, December 10, the President said the ranching initiative is aimed at reducing violence, protecting vulnerable rural communities, and promoting economic viability within the livestock sector.
Tinubu instructed the Minister of Livestock Development to identify villages and grazing areas that can be rehabilitated for ranching. He also directed the commencement of mobilisation efforts, prioritising regions currently experiencing conflicts.
“We must eliminate these areas of conflict and make the livestock reform economically viable,” the President said. “The opportunity is there—let’s utilise it. You should emphasize the constitutional requirement that land belongs to the states.”
The President tasked Vice President Kashim Shettima, who chairs the National Economic Council (NEC), with sensitising governors and key stakeholders on the implementation of the ranching reforms.
Reiterating his commitment to restoring security in rural communities, Tinubu insisted that conflict-stricken villages must be revitalised and protected.
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Meanwhile, the President reaffirmed his directive for the withdrawal of police personnel attached to VIPs, VVIPs, and serving ministers, stressing that the order “is not negotiable.”
He mandated full compliance, instructing any official with exceptional security concerns to seek clearance through the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Tinubu ordered the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam; and the IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, to oversee the enforcement of the directive.
He emphasised that police officers are trained primarily to protect lives and property, particularly those of the most vulnerable citizens—not a select group of privileged individuals.
The President disclosed that the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, would coordinate the deployment of operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to take over VIP protection duties.
“The Civil Defence Corps is trained for VIP protection, and they are armed too,” he noted, adding that police personnel will be redeployed to frontline security operations nationwide.
Tinubu said government is reviewing the entire security structure to respond more effectively to kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism.
“We need all forces utilised,” he stated. “I know some people are exposed; we will make exceptions. The Civil Defence is very much around.”
He directed ministers requiring police coverage for specific assignments to seek clearance from the IGP. He also instructed the NSA to take personal responsibility for ensuring strict compliance.
By PRNigeria
