Tinubu Declares Bandits, Violent Cults, Armed Groups Terrorists Under New Security Framework

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has declared bandits, violent cult groups, kidnappers, foreign-linked mercenaries, and other armed non-state actors as terrorists, signalling a major shift in Nigeria’s security doctrine as his administration intensifies efforts to curb escalating violence across the country.

A Hardline Security Stance From the Presidency

Presenting the 2026 Appropriation Bill to a joint session of the National Assembly on Friday, President Tinubu said any armed group operating outside the authority of the state would henceforth be treated as a terrorist organisation. According to reports, the president stressed that the new security framework would not only target those who carry out violent attacks but also individuals and networks that finance, support, or enable such crimes.

Speaking before lawmakers, Tinubu reportedly stated that bandits, militias, armed gangs, violent cults, forest-based criminal groups, armed robbers, and foreign-linked mercenaries would all fall under this new classification. Akahi News gathered that the declaration represents one of the clearest policy signals yet from the administration on how it intends to confront Nigeria’s complex security challenges.

Going After Sponsors, Not Just Perpetrators

Observers noted that a key element of the president’s speech was his emphasis on pursuing not only those who commit acts of violence but also those who facilitate them. According to Channels Television, Tinubu said his government would “go after all those who perpetrate violence for political or sectarian ends, along with those who finance and facilitate their evil schemes.”

This approach, analysts believe, reflects a growing recognition that terrorism and banditry thrive on financial and logistical support networks. Akahi News learnt that security agencies may now be empowered to widen investigations to include sponsors, arms suppliers, and collaborators operating both within and outside affected communities.

‘A New Era’ in Criminal Justice

President Tinubu described the policy shift as the beginning of a “new era” in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism and violent crime. In recent months, the country has witnessed repeated mass abductions, deadly attacks, and persistent banditry, particularly in parts of the North-West, North-Central, and other vulnerable regions.

Despite these challenges, the president expressed confidence that tougher measures and improved coordination among security agencies would yield results. He reportedly vowed that criminals would receive “no mercy” from his administration, adding that those involved in terrorism, kidnapping for ransom, and other violent crimes would face the full weight of the law.

Massive Budgetary Backing for Security

To reinforce this policy direction, Tinubu announced a significant financial commitment to national security in the proposed 2026 budget. According to details presented at the National Assembly, ₦5.41 trillion out of the ₦58.1 trillion budget proposal has been earmarked for security and defence — the largest sectoral allocation in the spending plan.

Akahi News gathered that the funds are expected to be used to strengthen the fighting capability of the armed forces and other security agencies through improved training, intelligence gathering, and the acquisition of modern equipment and hardware. The president reportedly assured Nigerians that sustained investment in security would remain a top priority of his administration.

Mixed Reactions and Wider Implications

While many Nigerians have welcomed the tough rhetoric as long overdue, some legal and civil society groups are urging caution. Analysts believe that clear legal definitions, respect for human rights, and strong oversight will be critical to ensuring that the new framework is effective without being abused.

Nevertheless, security experts say the declaration could give law enforcement agencies broader legal backing to confront armed groups that have long exploited gaps in Nigeria’s criminal justice system. Akahi News notes that how this policy is implemented in practice will determine whether it delivers lasting peace or merely adds to existing challenges.

As Nigeria grapples with persistent insecurity, President Tinubu’s declaration marks a decisive moment in the country’s counter-terrorism strategy. With substantial budgetary support and a renewed focus on dismantling both violent groups and their sponsors, expectations are high among citizens yearning for improved safety and stability.

Akahi News will continue to monitor developments surrounding the new security framework and its impact on communities across the nation.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Akahi News www.akahinews.org