Vice President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that national security remains the foremost priority of the Federal Government, reiterating the administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.
Shettima gave the assurance on Monday in Abuja while speaking as Special Guest of Honour at the presentation of a book titled My Life and Journalists Hangout, written by TVC anchor and author, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju, popularly known as BKO. His remarks were in response to calls by the veteran broadcaster urging the government to act more decisively in tackling rising insecurity in parts of the country.
Addressing guests at the event, the Vice President emphasised that the primary responsibility of any government is to ensure the safety of its citizens, noting that without security, development cannot thrive and governance loses its meaning.
“The essence of government is to provide security to the lives and property of the citizen,” Shettima said, stressing that the administration is fully aware of the security challenges facing the nation and is working tirelessly to address them through coordinated military, intelligence, and community-based strategies.
He acknowledged the concerns raised by Kolade-Otitoju and other stakeholders, stating that constructive criticism and public engagement are necessary in a democratic society. According to him, the government welcomes honest feedback from citizens and the media, as such contributions help authorities to evaluate policies and improve security strategies.
Shettima noted that the security architecture of the country is being strengthened through improved collaboration among security agencies, investment in modern technology, and increased intelligence gathering. He added that the government is also addressing the root causes of insecurity, including unemployment, poverty, and social dislocation, through economic and social intervention programmes.
The Vice President further emphasised that the fight against insecurity is not the responsibility of the government alone, calling on citizens to support security agencies with timely and useful information. He said community participation and trust between the public and security institutions remain critical to winning the fight against criminality and terrorism.
Speaking at the event, Babajide Kolade-Otitoju urged the government to intensify efforts to restore peace and stability across the country, noting that journalists and media professionals often serve as the bridge between the government and the people. He said his book chronicles his life, career, and experiences in journalism, as well as his long-running engagement with national issues through his programme.
Kolade-Otitoju also highlighted the role of responsible journalism in nation-building, stressing that the media must continue to hold leaders accountable while promoting unity and national development.
Dignitaries at the event included media professionals, politicians, academics, and members of the public, who gathered to celebrate the author and reflect on the role of journalism in shaping public discourse in Nigeria.
In his closing remarks, Shettima reaffirmed the commitment of the administration to building a safer and more secure Nigeria, expressing optimism that with sustained efforts, collaboration, and public support, the country would overcome its security challenges and move toward lasting peace and development.
