President Bola Tinubu on Friday declared insecurity and poverty as national emergencies, warning that both challenges pose serious threats to employment, productivity, and Nigeria’s economic stability.
Tinubu made the declaration during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Eagle Square, Abuja, where he addressed thousands of workers and labour leaders. He was represented at the event by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
According to a statement issued by the SGF’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, the President said his administration recognises the severity of the twin challenges and is responding with urgent and coordinated interventions.
Tinubu stressed that sustainable job creation and economic growth cannot be achieved in an environment undermined by fear, hunger, and insecurity.
“There cannot be decent work where workers fear for their lives, where wages cannot feed a family, or where insecurity disrupts farms, factories, markets, and other economic activities,” he said.
He added that insecurity and poverty have become “hydra-headed challenges” requiring emergency-level attention due to their impact on productivity, livelihoods, and investor confidence.
“These hydra-headed challenges, the government notes, have been treated as a national emergency due to their impact on productivity, livelihoods, and the confidence of both workers and employers,” the President stated.
Tinubu assured workers and the general public that ongoing security and economic reforms would be sustained to restore stability and improve living conditions across the country.
