Renowned pastor and founder of Kingsway International Christian Centre (KICC), Matthew Ashimolowo, has called on Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Tinubu’s renewed push against insecurity, describing the administration as “committed to making a difference.”
Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily on Thursday, November 27, Ashimolowo urged citizens to unite behind the president’s plan to strengthen the nation’s security forces.
“Nigeria needs a turnaround. Let’s stand behind our president now that he has called for more policing, more soldiers,” he said.
The cleric encouraged Nigerians to take pride in their resilience while supporting ongoing reforms aimed at restoring order and national confidence.
“Let’s raise the security level, make our people proud to be Nigerians, let’s tap into the brain of our nation and also recognize global Africa,” Ashimolowo said during the broadcast.
He praised the determination of Nigerians and their global influence, saying the country’s reputation for strength and courage should be matched by a leadership committed to progress.
“Every African nation wants to be Nigerians. They are so proud of us, Nigerians. We are the toughest, strongest, boldest and fearless.
“This is the nation we are, and I believe we have a leadership that wants to make things work. Let’s support and be behind him [Tinubu],” he added.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Declares National Security Emergency, Orders Recruitment of 20,000 Additional Police Officers
The appeal followed President Tinubu’s announcement on Wednesday declaring a state of emergency on insecurity and authorising expanded recruitment across security agencies.
“Today, in view of the emerging security situation, I have decided to declare a nationwide security emergency and order additional recruitment into the Armed Forces,” Tinubu said in a statement he signed.
“By this declaration, the police and the army are authorised to recruit more personnel. The police will recruit an additional 20,000 officers, bringing the total to 50,000.”
Ashimolowo endorsed the move and proposed a new role for members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in strengthening security.
“All our NYSC guys should be trained,” he said, suggesting that basic defence and civic training could turn youth service into a national asset.
However, the KICC founder cautioned against the misuse of state policing.
“The state police may work, but I tell you, will end up becoming a personal army for somebody who will begin to use it at some point to terrorize others,” he warned.
Ashimolowo’s comments echo a growing sentiment among faith and civic leaders urging unity and practical collaboration to confront the country’s deepening insecurity.