President Tinubu Orders Terrorist Camp Destruction Ahead of Elections

President Bola Tinubu met with the National Security Council and heads of security agencies on October 15, 2026, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja to review national security and preparations for the upcoming elections. The president ordered security chiefs to ensure a free, fair, and credible electoral process, mandating a secure environment where citizens can vote without fear or intimidation.

During the meeting, the president also directed the intensification of operations to dismantle all terrorist and bandit camps across Nigeria and rescue all abducted persons. To support these objectives, the government is increasing security capacity through fresh recruitment, training, and the procurement of approximately 10 new aircraft and helicopters. Recent salary increases for armed forces personnel have been implemented, with similar welfare improvements pending for police and pensioners.

Minister of Defence Christopher Musa assured the public and opposition parties that security forces would remain neutral and professional to provide a level playing field for all candidates. Musa also dismissed allegations that minors were being recruited into the military. Separately, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike urged voters to prioritize a candidate's record of service over ethnic appeals or regional power rotation, arguing that changing the identity of those in power does not automatically end marginalization.