Oshiomhole: Nigeria’s Security Situation Far from Ideal, Measurable Progress Made

•Says changing war theatre leadership not inherently detrimental 

•Hails Tinubu’s efforts in addressing nation’s challenges

Funmi Ogundare

Former Edo State governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, yesterday, acknowledged that Nigeria’s security situation was far from ideal, but insisted some measurable progress had been made under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.

Citing improved coordination and access to previously unreachable areas, Oshiomhole argued that changing war theatre leadership was not inherently detrimental as being insinuated in some quarters.

Also, praising Tinubu for what he described as a ‘huge’ achievement in eliminating Nigeria’s controversial dual exchange rate policy, he described it as a major step toward economic transparency and value restoration.

In an interview on AriseTV, Oshiomhole addressed concerns around the country’s persistent insecurity, particularly in the North-East.

“There are places in the North-East where people can now go freely without military escorts,” he stated, crediting Tinubu’s renewed investment in the armed forces and security operations.

He emphasised that while attacks still occured, including deadly ambushes and roadside bombings, the current government was actively addressing them.

Responding to criticism over the frequent change of military commanders, with the latest being Major General Abdul-Salam Abubakar, becoming the 15th to lead the fight against Boko Haram in 15 years, Oshiomhole argued that changing leadership was not inherently detrimental.

“If I give you an assignment and you’re not delivering, I will keep changing until I get it right,” he said.

He dismissed suggestions that the turnover of commanders reflected poor strategy or instability, saying the focus should instead be on results and the president’s willingness to act decisively.

“It shows the president’s eyes are on the job,” he added.

While defending the government’s efforts, Oshiomhole acknowledged the enduring challenges and urged Nigerians and the media to recognise the efforts of security forces rather than criticise them unfairly.

“We must salute the effort of the armed forces. You don’t dismiss them as if they are doing nothing.”

Making specific reference to the  recent attacks in Borno and Yobe States, which have raised fresh alarms about the resilience of insurgent groups and the vulnerability of military infrastructure, Oshiomhole insisted that, “No one is more concerned about finding a lasting, sustainable solution to the problem of insecurity than the President himself.”

He also explained that the end of the dual exchange rate system under Tinubu has disrupted a corrupt financial structure that allowed a select few to manipulate forex markets and enrich themselves at the expense of national development.

“That policy has been effectively eliminated by the president,” he said, adding: “People underestimate it, but it is huge.”