Tinubu Links Terror Leaders’ Arrests to Nigeria’s Security Gains

Tinubu Links Terror Leaders’ Arrests to Nigeria’s Security Gains

By Abiola Adigun with Agency Reports

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has linked Nigeria’s recent security breakthroughs — including the arrest of two top terrorist leaders — to the resilience of the nation’s armed forces, declaring that the fight against insurgency and banditry is gaining decisive momentum.
Speaking at the Peace and Stability plenary of the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) in Yokohama, Japan, Tinubu hailed the bravery of Nigerian soldiers and security agencies, stressing that their sacrifices are beginning to translate into concrete victories on the ground.
The President’s remarks come just days after Nigerian troops, working with state governments and intelligence agencies, captured two notorious terror commanders whose reign of violence had destabilized communities in the North. Analysts describe the arrests as a “turning point” in the long struggle against terrorism and rural banditry, which have threatened food security and displaced thousands.
“Peace and stability are the bedrock of development. Nigeria’s armed forces have shown that, with courage and strategy, we can roll back the tide of terror. But their heroism must be matched by our commitment as leaders to address the root causes of insecurity,” Tinubu said in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
The President emphasized that security gains will be sustained through investments in governance, infrastructure, and inclusive growth, noting that poverty, resource competition, and lack of opportunities often fuel violent conflict.
He cited the arrests of the terror leaders as proof that Nigeria’s multi-pronged approach — combining military pressure, community engagement, and economic reform — is yielding results. “These breakthroughs demonstrate that Nigeria is not only fighting battles but also winning the larger war for peace and stability,” he said.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his opening remarks, stressed the need for local solutions and international cooperation in resolving Africa’s conflicts, unveiling a new $5.5 billion partnership with the African Development Bank.
Security experts argue that the timing of Nigeria’s breakthrough arrests could strengthen Tinubu’s calls for global partnerships.
“What we see is a government beginning to align military success with diplomatic capital. If sustained, this could change the security trajectory of the Sahel region.”, said Dr. Fatima Akanni, a conflict a security analyst
For communities terrorised by insurgents and bandits, however, the President’s pledge carries more immediate weight. Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, reacting to the arrests, said: “This is a strong signal that the government is backing words with action. Nigerians can begin to hope that peace is possible.”
At TICAD9, Tinubu urged Japan and global partners to support Africa’s push for greater representation at the United Nations Security Council, insisting that security in Africa has global implications.
“The courage of our soldiers has opened a window of opportunity,” Tinubu declared. “Now, it is our duty — as leaders and as partners — to ensure that window leads not back to conflict, but forward to peace, prosperity, and lasting stability.”