President Bola Tinubu on Sunday urged state governors to deepen collaboration in tackling insecurity, pledging enhanced international support to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.

He spoke when Vice-President Kashim Shettima led governors on the traditional Eid-el-Fitr homage to his residence in Lagos.

Mr. Tinubu expressed gratitude for the unity demonstrated during Ramadan, noting that Muslims began and concluded the fasting period together in a spirit of shared faith and national cohesion.

“We thank God that we all started together and ended it together. May Almighty Allah continue to guide us and put our nation on the right path,” he said.

He commended the governors for their continued support, stressing that the next phase of governance must focus squarely on addressing insecurity and restoring peace nationwide.

“The next phase of our struggle is the challenge of insecurity, and I am making all efforts to ensure we collectively achieve victory over forces threatening our stability,” he added.

Describing insecurity as a major impediment to development, progress, and prosperity, the President urged all tiers of government to remain resolute in confronting the challenge.

“Insecurity is an enemy of development, progress, and prosperity. I am glad that we are all mindful of the challenge before us.”

Mr. Tinubu pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s international partnerships to secure modern equipment, intelligence support, and training required to combat terrorism and related threats effectively.

“One of the major discussions in the United Kingdom was equipment and support. We are working to deepen collaboration in these critical areas,” he said.

He disclosed that he also held extensive talks on Saturday with French President Emmanuel Macron on security cooperation and potential support for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.

“I had a lengthy discussion with President Macron, and they are willing to collaborate with us on equipment and support.”

The President said Nigeria would leverage its goodwill and diplomatic relationships to access resources, including credit facilities, to strengthen its security capabilities.

“We must reach out to partners willing to support us with equipment and training so that we can effectively confront and defeat terrorism,” he said.

Mr. Tinubu also urged state governments to intensify efforts to support vulnerable populations, noting that, while progress had been made, more could be done to improve social welfare systems.

“I will not single out any state, but you are doing well and can do better in caring for the vulnerable in our society.”

He warned that global tensions, particularly in the Middle East, could heighten inflationary pressures and erode Nigerians’ purchasing power.

“The Middle East crisis will affect inflation and purchasing power, with implications for transportation costs and general living conditions.”

The President assured that the Federal Government would continue engaging labour unions and other stakeholders to mitigate the economic impact and maintain social stability.

He also commended the Vice-President for his swift response to recent security incidents in Borno State, describing his actions as timely and commendable.

“My condolences to Kashim Shettima. I appreciate your immediate return to Borno to convey sympathy and solidarity with the affected communities.”

Mr. Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to investing in technology, intelligence, and security infrastructure to decisively address insurgency and related threats nationwide.

“We are determined to defeat terrorism and all its manifestations. We must come together to secure our nation and guarantee a peaceful future,” he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the governors were led on the visit by Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who is also Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.