Insecurity: Cleric Matthew Ashimolowo Urges Nigerians to rally behind President Tinubu
Renowned cleric and founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, has called on Nigerians to unite behind President Bola Tinubu as the Federal Government steps up efforts to tackle the nation’s worsening security situation.
Speaking on Thursday on Sunrise Daily, a Channels Television breakfast programme, Ashimolowo commended the President’s recent declaration of a nationwide security emergency and the decision to expand the manpower of the armed forces and police.
Ashimolowo said the President’s actions signal a leadership ready to confront insecurity head-on, urging citizens to support the administration at a critical time.
“Nigeria needs a turnaround. Let’s stand behind our President now that he has called for more policing and more soldiers,” he said.
He added that boosting national security capacity would help restore pride among citizens and reposition Nigeria’s global image.
According to him, Nigerians are “strong, resilient and fearless,” and leadership efforts to stabilise the country deserve collective backing.
President Tinubu on Wednesday announced a state of emergency on insecurity following a spike in nationwide attacks. He authorised the recruitment of additional personnel into the military and police.
Under the directive, the Nigeria Police Force is expected to recruit 20,000 more officers raising its current recruitment total to 50,000.
The armed forces will also onboard new personnel to improve counterterrorism and internal security operations.
Tinubu said the emergency measure was necessary to address the “emerging security situation” and reinforce national defence structures.
Ashimolowo further proposed that the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) be trained as part of a wider strategy to strengthen national security, suggesting that young Nigerians could play a supportive role in emergency response and basic defence readiness.
He, however, expressed reservations about state police, warning they could be misused by political leaders.
“State police may work, but could eventually become someone’s personal army, used to intimidate opponents,” he cautioned.
The country continues to face numerous security threats, including terrorism, banditry, communal clashes, kidnapping for ransom, and violent crime across various regions.
The Federal Government has been under increasing pressure to implement aggressive reforms to protect citizens and businesses.
Ashimolowo’s remarks come amid growing public debate on the best approach to rebuilding security architecture across the country.
