By Chesa Chesa
President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday pledged to redouble his efforts and use every resources available to government towards checkmating the insecurity prevalent the country.
National Security Adviser (NSA), Babagana Monguno, told State House correspondents that this was the President’s conclusion after receiving security briefs during the National Security Council meeting that held at the Presidential Villa.
Buhari convened the meeting to discuss the spate of insecurity in the country and in attendance were Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, service chiefs, Inspector-General of Police, and the NSA.
Monguno said he briefed the Council on the Boko Haram insurgency in the country’s Northeast, armed banditry and emergence of all kinds of illegal groups, as well as increased cases of kidnappings.
“The most important thing is that I stressed to Council that there is a need for collective action not just for the security agencies but by all ministries, departments and agencies of governments, civil societies organizations and all non-governmental organisations within Nigeria.
“We have, of course known that we are all firmly within the cross hairs of all kinds of criminal elements trying to undermine national security.
“Mr. President noted all the issues raised and of course in due time he will be able to address these issues.
“Arising from this meeting, I will like to assure all Nigerians that Mr. President is fully on board, he is committed to doing whatever is necessary to reduce the spate of violence and insecurity in the country.
“He is also committed to spending whatever resources he has at his disposal to bring to a quick end to all the issues affecting Nigerians and bringing a lot of sorrows to Nigerians.
“That is the most important takeaway from today’s meeting – Mr. President’s reassurance that issues are being addressed and that he will redouble his effort in ensuring that the primary responsibility of government, which is to ensure the safety of lives and property, is realised”, the NSA said.
He added that the meeting also discussed the Covid-19 pandemic and efforts of the government to check the spread and find urgent solutions.
Monguno revealed that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of Presidential Taskforce in COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, briefed the meeting on the gains made so far, areas which need to be addressed urgently, and projections for the future.
