President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued a strong warning to terrorists, kidnappers, and their sponsors, urging them to surrender or face decisive military action.

In a nationwide broadcast marking Nigeria’s 2026 Democracy Day celebration on Friday, the President declared that no mercy would be shown to those responsible for violent crimes across the country.

According to Tinubu, the Federal Government’s window for surrender remains open but will not last indefinitely.

Speaking on recent abductions involving children and tutors in Oyo and Borno states, the President expressed optimism that the victims would return safely, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity.

He noted that the government had already declared a state of emergency on security and approved the recruitment of over 50,000 police officers, alongside thousands of military personnel, to strengthen national security.

“Our 2026 budget commits ₦5.41 trillion, our largest ever, to defence and security. Our administration is prepared to do even more to safeguard our people,” Tinubu stated.

The President added that Nigeria has shifted from reliance on foreign training support from allies such as the United States and France to more precise, intelligence-driven operations.

Highlighting recent military gains, Tinubu said security forces had degraded a key ISWAP command centre in Arege, Borno State. He also claimed that terror-related deaths have dropped by 81 per cent since 2015.

“Over 13,000 terrorists have been neutralised in the past year. At the same time, we continue to offer a path to peace. Since 2023, more than 124,000 fighters and their dependents have surrendered under Operation Safe Corridor,” he said.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to remain united and avoid attributing criminal activities to any ethnic or religious group, stressing that national cohesion is essential to overcoming insecurity.

He also commended the armed forces, police, intelligence agencies, and community leaders for their ongoing efforts in maintaining peace and stability.

“To our armed forces, police, and intelligence services: Nigeria salutes your sacrifice,” he said.

“To our traditional rulers, faith leaders, and community heads: thank you for supporting peace and reconciliation. The government cannot do it alone.”