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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has indefinitely postponed his scheduled visits to Johannesburg, South Africa, and Luanda, Angola, as he awaits comprehensive security updates following recent violent incidents in Kebbi and Kwara States.
Suspension of Diplomatic Trips Due to Escalating Security Threats
Originally, the President was set to leave Abuja on Wednesday to attend the 20th G20 Summit in South Africa, followed by participation in the seventh African Union-European Union Summit in Angola. However, his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that these plans have been deferred in light of emerging security challenges.
Critical Security Incidents Prompt Heightened Vigilance
The decision comes as the government grapples with the recent kidnapping of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and a violent assault by armed bandits on congregants at Christ Apostolic Church in Eruku, located within the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State.
Government Response and Security Reinforcements
In response to appeals from the Kwara State authorities, President Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to Eruku and the broader Ekiti LGA. He has also mandated law enforcement agencies to intensify efforts to identify and apprehend those responsible for the church attack.
Vice President Shettima’s Mission and Ongoing Security Assessments
Vice President Kashim Shettima has been dispatched to Kebbi State to convey the President’s condolences and assess the situation firsthand. President Tinubu will carefully evaluate Shettima’s findings alongside intelligence reports from the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) before determining subsequent measures.
Presidential Commitment to Restoring Safety and Security
The Presidency emphasized that the President’s decision to delay his international engagements reflects his deep concern over the recent security breaches. He has reiterated his directive to all security agencies to exhaust every possible avenue to rescue the abducted schoolgirls and guarantee their safe return.
According to recent data from Nigeria’s security agencies, incidents of banditry and kidnappings have surged by over 30% in the past year, underscoring the urgency of coordinated government action. The administration’s current focus remains on stabilizing affected regions and preventing further attacks.
