President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has warned that the escalating crisis in the Middle East could trigger a fresh wave of inflation in Nigeria and weaken citizens’ purchasing power, even as he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity nationwide.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President said his recent engagements in the United Kingdom were aimed at securing advanced security support and modern equipment to strengthen Nigeria’s defence capabilities.

Tinubu spoke during an Eid-el-Fitr gathering at his Lagos residence, where he hosted Vice President Kashim Shettima and 23 state governors, stressing the need for collective action to confront insecurity across the country.

He disclosed that discussions with international partners, including Emmanuel Macron, were focused on collaboration in the areas of security equipment and operational support.

According to the President, Nigeria is engaging multiple countries to enhance its capacity to combat criminality and safeguard lives and property.

Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu recently returned from a three-day State Visit to the United Kingdom, where they were hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and also held talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

Reflecting on global economic trends, the President cautioned that the ongoing Middle East tensions could reignite inflationary pressures, with direct consequences for the cost of living in Nigeria.

He noted that the anticipated rise in inflation would likely affect household purchasing power and increase demands for government intervention, particularly from labour unions and vulnerable groups.

Tinubu urged state governors to translate policy ideas into concrete actions that directly improve citizens’ welfare, while aligning with federal efforts to curb insecurity.

He also advised state governments to introduce targeted incentives to cushion the impact of rising costs, especially in the areas of energy and transportation.

The President commended Vice President Shettima for his recent visit to Borno State to commiserate with affected communities, assuring Nigerians of enhanced security through the deployment of modern technology.

Chairman of the Nigerian Governors Forum and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, lauded Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as significant for Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic relations.

He also disclosed that discussions on the establishment of state policing structures were ongoing, with proposals expected to be presented to the National Assembly.

The high-level meeting was attended by governors from across the federation, reflecting a unified approach to addressing the nation’s security and economic challenges.

The President reiterated that protecting Nigerians remains a top priority, as his administration intensifies efforts to stabilise the economy and strengthen national security amid global uncertainties.