President Bola Tinubu has assured residents of Oyo State and the South-West that the Federal Government is taking decisive steps to improve security and secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Government Area.
The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the assurance during the commissioning of the newly remodelled and expanded Premier Hotel in Ibadan.
Tinubu said the Federal Government is deploying every available resource, including international cooperation, to ensure the safe rescue of the victims while intensifying efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes across the country.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security, noting that all realistic measures are being pursued to bring the abducted victims home safely without unnecessary loss of life.
The President urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and actively support security agencies by providing credible intelligence and cooperating with community-based security efforts. He also emphasized the important role of traditional rulers and religious leaders in promoting peace and protecting their communities.
According to him, lasting economic development can only be achieved in a peaceful environment. He added that the government has continued to strengthen the country’s security architecture through improved intelligence gathering, enhanced collaboration among security agencies, technological surveillance, and increased support for law enforcement personnel.
Tinubu also disclosed that the National Assembly is currently working on reforms aimed at strengthening policing across the country, expressing optimism that the initiative will be implemented in the near future.
He stated that ongoing security reforms are already producing positive results in several parts of Nigeria and assured citizens that the government would continue its efforts until people can live and conduct their businesses without fear.
Speaking on the economy, the President said his administration has introduced wide-ranging reforms to address long-standing structural challenges and create a foundation for sustainable economic growth.
He noted that investor confidence is gradually improving, strategic investments are increasing, and several sectors of the economy are showing renewed growth. He also revealed that Nigeria’s foreign reserves have reached their highest level in the past two decades.
Tinubu described the redevelopment of Premier Hotel as a strong indication of investors’ confidence in Nigeria’s future and a symbol of renewed optimism and enterprise.
He praised the six South-West states that own Odu’a Investment Company Limited for preserving and modernising one of the region’s most historic assets.
Representing Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Muisibau Babatunde, described the project as a major milestone in restoring one of Nigeria’s most iconic hospitality facilities.
Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa also described the reopening as a symbol of resilience, renewal, and confidence in the future of the South-West.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the state’s Secretary to the Government, Mrs. Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the project demonstrates how preserving historical landmarks can complement economic development.
Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, explained that Premier Hotel, originally established in 1966, has been transformed into a modern five-star hospitality destination with its room capacity expanded from 87 to 154 luxury rooms and suites.
He added that while the hotel’s historic architectural identity was preserved, it was upgraded to meet international hospitality standards. Ashiru also disclosed that the company plans to redevelop other hospitality assets, including Lagos Airport Hotel and Lafia Hotel in Ibadan, as part of its long-term investment strategy.
