Terrorism; President Tinubu secures French military support after phone conversation with Macron

Terrorism; President Tinubu secures French military support after phone conversation with Macron

President Bola Tinubu has disclosed that Nigeria has secured fresh collaboration with France on military equipment and training following a recent conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron.

The President made this known on Sunday during a meeting with state governors at his residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, where he is observing the Eid-el-Fitr holidays after returning from a two-day state visit to the United Kingdom.

Addressing the governors, Tinubu said his administration is intensifying efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security capacity through international partnerships and available financial channels.

“I can report to you, yesterday again, at a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron, their collaboration with us for equipment and support.

“I’m making frantic efforts to contact other nations. If we have to spend our goodwill and line of credit, we have those who are willing to support us with equipment and training,” he said.

The President described insecurity as a critical challenge confronting the country, urging collective action to overcome it.

“The next phase of our struggle is staring us in the face; it is the challenge of insecurity in this country.

“I’m making all the efforts to ensure it is us collectively that we share the joy and be proud of victory over tyranny,” Tinubu said.

He emphasised that insecurity continues to threaten development and prosperity, adding that his administration remains committed to addressing the issue decisively.

Highlighting outcomes from his recent UK trip, Tinubu noted that discussions around military equipment acquisition featured prominently.

“One of the major discussions in the UK is equipment. I can report to you, yesterday again, at a lengthy discussion with Emmanuel Macron, their collaboration with us for equipment and support,” he stated.

The meeting with governors comes in the wake of recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, which resulted in casualties and heightened security concerns.

In response, the President had earlier directed security chiefs to relocate to the city and approved additional operational support to boost counter-terrorism efforts.

Vice President Kashim Shettima had also visited victims receiving treatment, assuring Nigerians of increased investment in security logistics and equipment.

Tinubu further acknowledged the potential economic impact of ongoing global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, warning of rising inflationary pressures.

“I know this Middle East crisis will elicit inflation and will affect our purchasing power.

“The labour union and others will be gathering to support them because of the effect of the Middle East war and prices at the pumps, resulting in transportation problems and food prices,” he said.

He commended the governors for honouring the meeting at short notice, describing their turnout as a reflection of unity and commitment.

“I am very surprised at the short notice that this number is extremely impressive.

“It shows our sincerity, commitment, and the value of friendship and togetherness. I thank every one of you for what we have been doing,” he added.

The President also urged state leaders to prioritise the welfare of vulnerable citizens and extend support to affected communities, particularly in Borno State.

Reaffirming his administration’s resolve, Tinubu stressed the importance of sustained investment in security infrastructure.

“We must defeat terrorism and all of these criminal acts. As our investment in technology and equipment, we must defeat them,” he declared.