Boko Haram: Jonathan Summons Emergency Security Meeting

Posted by African Examiner Featured, Latest Headlines, News Wednesday, April 16th, 2014

Mona Ogbeidi

Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan has reassured all Nigerians and persons living in the country that the Federal Government remains mindful of its responsibility for the safety of their lives and properties in all parts of the country.

The President also promised to continue to do everything possible to protect them from the scourge of terrorism and insecurity.

Jonathan made this assertion when he summoned members of the National Security Council to a meeting, which will be held on Thursday at the Presidential Villa against the backdrop of recent developments in the country.

In a statement issued by Reuben Abati, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, the President said he is particularly concerned about the plight of the young senior secondary school girls who were reportedly abducted from their school in Borno state on Monday night.

The statement added that the president has ordered the military and national security agencies to deploy maximum efforts towards rescuing all of the girls and returning them safely to their parents.

Those expected at the security meeting include Vice President Namadi Sambo, the Minister of Defence, Lt.-Gen Aliyu Gusau, the National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki (rtd.), the Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Alex Badeh, the Service Chiefs, the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the State Security Services and the Director-General of National Intelligence Agency.

Also, the meeting of the National Security Council will be followed by enlarged meeting on security developments in the country to which President Jonathan has invited State Governors.

However, President Jonathan, members of the National Security Council and state governors will review the security situation in the country as well as ongoing national security measures and operations with a view to determining the best way forward.

“Jonathan deeply regrets the pain, sorrow and anguish brought upon many Nigerian families in recent days as a consequence of recurring security challenges which the nation is contending with.”

“The President remains convinced that with the patriotic commitment and support of all Nigerians, the country will ultimately overcome its present challenges and move forward in unity and strength.” the statement stated.