President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his government’s unwavering commitment to cease all ransom payments, emphasizing that kidnappers “will receive not a dime.”
This declaration, featured in an opinion piece authored by the president and published in the latest edition of Newsweek magazine, underscores a pivotal shift in Nigeria’s approach to combating the scourge of abductions.
The president’s firm stance comes amid renewed public outcry and solemn remembrance of the 276 Chibok girls abducted by Boko Haram terrorists on April 14, 2014, in Borno State.
Regrettably, about 91 of these girls remain in captivity, underscoring the persistent threat posed by kidnappings in Africa’s most populous nation.
Tinubu highlighted the recent abduction of 137 students in Kaduna State, where swift action by security and intelligence agencies led to their safe return within a fortnight.
While lauding this success, he acknowledged the enduring concerns over kidnappings, emphasising the need for decisive action to eradicate this menace.
Central to the president’s strategy is recognizing the evolving nature of the threat, with criminal gangs now driving mass abductions primarily for financial gain.
Rejecting the notion of ransom payments as a solution, Tinubu emphasised that succumbing to extortion only perpetuates the problem, asserting that “ransoms stop” under his leadership.
Moreover, Tinubu outlined broader economic reforms aimed at addressing underlying factors fueling insecurity.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s economic challenges, including widespread poverty and inequality, he emphasised the imperative of structural reforms to foster sustainable growth and opportunity.
Tinunu said despite the initial hardships stemming from these reforms, signs of progress are emerging.
Foreign currency inflows have surged, with the clearance of a multi-billion forex backlog bolstering investor confidence.
PLATFORM TIMES gathered that that the stabilisation of the naira and tangible gains against the dollar signal a positive trajectory for Nigeria’s economy.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that Tinubu’s stance reflects a holistic approach to national security, intertwining decisive action against kidnappers with comprehensive economic reforms.
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