Tinubu declares emergency on insecurity, poverty

President Bola Tinubu on Friday in Abuja declared insecurity and poverty as a national emergency, saying both issues are affecting jobs, economic growth and the country’s stability. He made this known while addressing workers and labour leaders at the May Day celebration held at Eagle Square.

The president spoke through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, where he explained that fear and economic hardship are making it difficult for Nigerians to work and earn a living. He said the situation has forced the government to treat both challenges with urgency as part of efforts to improve living conditions.

Tinubu said his administration has started taking steps to tackle the problems. He mentioned the Community Protection Guards Initiative, which has employed about 45,000 youths to help improve security at the local level while also providing jobs.

He also spoke about social support programmes under his government, stating that cash transfers have reached about 15 million households across the country, with millions of people said to have moved out of poverty through these efforts.

The president added that ongoing projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline are creating jobs for many Nigerians, with over 600,000 employment opportunities already linked to these developments.

On workers’ welfare, he said the government has introduced a new minimum wage, paid outstanding pensions and resumed gratuity payments from early 2026. He also noted that many workers in the informal sector have joined the micro-pension scheme, while small businesses are receiving support from a N200 billion fund.

Tinubu called on labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, to maintain dialogue with the government and avoid frequent strikes, urging them to use industrial action only when necessary.

He also praised security personnel for their efforts in protecting lives and property, adding that better security will help businesses grow and create more jobs.

The president said his administration remains focused on reducing poverty and improving safety across the country, adding that the goal is to build a nation where people can work without fear and meet their daily needs.