President Bola Tinubu has said that insecurity in Nigeria is partly caused by the collapse of grassroots governance, arguing that weak local government structures have contributed to security challenges across the country.
Speaking during his Democracy Day address, the President stressed the importance of effective local governance, noting that democracy can only deliver meaningful results when it reaches people at the community level.
According to Tinubu, many local government councils have struggled to perform their responsibilities over the years, creating gaps in governance that have affected development and security in several communities.
He explained that insecurity in Nigeria is not solely a law enforcement issue but also a consequence of weakened institutions at the grassroots level. The President noted that when local authorities are unable to respond to the needs of residents, communities become more vulnerable to criminal activities and social unrest.
Tinubu said his administration remains committed to strengthening local government autonomy and ensuring that funds allocated for grassroots development are used for the benefit of ordinary Nigerians.
The President added that strong local governments play a critical role in maintaining peace, improving public services, and promoting economic growth. He emphasized that bringing governance closer to the people is essential for addressing many of the country’s challenges.
Speaking further, Tinubu maintained that tackling insecurity in Nigeria requires a combination of effective security measures and stronger grassroots institutions capable of responding quickly to local concerns.
His remarks come as the country continues to grapple with banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and communal conflicts in different regions. Security experts and policy stakeholders have repeatedly called for reforms aimed at strengthening governance at the local level.
As Nigerians commemorate Democracy Day, Tinubu reiterated that rebuilding grassroots governance remains a key step toward achieving lasting security, stability, and sustainable development across the country.
