President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ending insecurity in Nigeria, declaring that banditry and other violent crimes would be decisively defeated through sustained investments in the country’s security architecture.
The President made this known while addressing dignitaries at a reception held shortly after inaugurating a series of landmark projects in Ogun State, including the Gateway International Airport and other strategic infrastructure aimed at boosting economic growth and development.
Among the projects commissioned were the Gateway International Airport, two state-owned aircraft under Gateway Air, the Gateway Aviation Housing Scheme located in Iperu Remo, as well as the Ilishan-Airport Road and several other developments. The projects are part of a broader effort by the Ogun State Government to transform the region into a key economic hub.
Speaking at the event, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration remains resolute in tackling the country’s persistent security challenges.
“We will win banditry and defeat insecurity. We will continue to invest more to strengthen the security architecture of Nigeria to intensify our fight against banditry and overcome insecurity,” the President stated.
His remarks come at a time when concerns over insecurity—including banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings—continue to dominate national discourse. Tinubu emphasized that his government is taking deliberate steps to address these threats through improved funding, modern security strategies, and coordinated efforts across relevant agencies.
Highlighting the significance of the newly inaugurated airport, Tinubu described the Gateway International Airport as a critical economic asset that would serve as a major driver of growth not only for Ogun State but for Nigeria as a whole.
According to him, the airport is strategically positioned to function as an economic nerve centre within Nigeria’s industrial corridor, facilitating trade, investment, and connectivity. He noted that the project would enhance the aviation sector while also stimulating socioeconomic activities across the region.
The President expressed satisfaction with the pace of development in Ogun State under the leadership of Dapo Abiodun, commending the governor for effectively utilizing increased federal allocations to execute impactful projects.
Tinubu praised Abiodun’s leadership style, describing it as driven by commitment, vision, and patriotism. He said the governor’s focus on industrialization and infrastructure development has positioned Ogun State as a model for subnational economic transformation.
“I am excited that Ogun State is making the most of improved federal allocations to deliver projects that will elevate its economic standing and contribute meaningfully to national development,” Tinubu said.
The President reiterated that his administration’s policies and development initiatives are designed with the welfare of Nigerians at their core. He acknowledged the economic sacrifices currently being experienced by citizens, noting that they are necessary steps toward achieving long-term prosperity.
According to Tinubu, ongoing reforms introduced by his government are aimed at correcting years of economic mismanagement and maladministration by previous administrations. He maintained that these reforms are already yielding positive outcomes by stabilizing key sectors and laying the foundation for sustainable growth.
“Our investment and infrastructure drive is people-centred. The sacrifices being made today are for a more prosperous tomorrow,” he stated.
Tinubu further disclosed that the Gateway International Airport is supported by independent power infrastructure, made possible through significant investments in gas and energy by the federal government. This, he said, ensures uninterrupted operations and underscores the administration’s commitment to integrating infrastructure with reliable energy solutions.
The President highlighted several other initiatives being implemented to improve the quality of life for Nigerians, including investments in modern transportation systems, enhanced agricultural productivity, and strengthened security frameworks.
He noted that the introduction of new transportation solutions reflects a shift toward innovation and efficiency in public service delivery. At the same time, efforts to bolster security infrastructure are intended to safeguard lives and property across the country.
“I am particularly pleased with the focus on mobility, security, and agriculture,” Tinubu said. “Strengthening security infrastructure reinforces our resolve to protect lives and property. We will overcome violence and terrorism.”
The President also virtually commissioned additional projects during the event, further demonstrating the scale of development efforts underway. These projects, he explained, are part of a comprehensive strategy to impact various sectors and improve livelihoods at all levels of society.
Reaffirming his administration’s vision for a stronger and more prosperous nation, Tinubu expressed confidence in Nigeria’s ability to overcome its current challenges and achieve greatness.
He assured Nigerians that the government would remain steadfast in implementing policies and projects that promote economic stability, security, and national development.
“I assure you that we will continue to make progress. Nigeria is determined to be great, and we are firmly on the path to achieving that greatness once again,” the President declared.
The event in Ogun State attracted a wide array of stakeholders, including government officials, traditional rulers, and members of the business community, all of whom witnessed the unveiling of projects expected to significantly boost the state’s economic profile.
As Nigeria continues to grapple with security concerns and economic reforms, Tinubu’s latest remarks signal a renewed push by the federal government to address these issues head-on, while leveraging infrastructure development as a key driver of national growth.
