Violence has reduced drastically in Nigeria, says Buhari

President Muhammadu Buhari says violence and conflicts in the country have reduced drastically owing to operations by security agencies.

In his Christmas message to Nigerians, Buhari asked citizens to make extra effort to live in peace and harmony with their neighbours, irrespective of differences.

The president urged insurgents, kidnappers and armed robbers to retrace their steps and join the people of goodwill or meet “their end.”

“It is in line with the spirit of Christmas that I call on all elements whose actions are opposed to what the season represents, especially, insurgents, terrorists, armed robbers, kidnappers and economic saboteurs, to retrace their steps and join people of goodwill and common humanity,” he said.

“If they fail to heed this call, they will meet their end as the armed forces, security and law-enforcement agencies are poised now to confront and defeat them.

“Our people must make extra efforts to live in peace and harmony with their neighbours, irrespective of differences.

“While it is gladdening to note that incidents of violence and conflicts have reduced drastically owing to the several operations embarked on by our security agencies, we must not let our guards’ down.”

The president urged all citizens to show love and focus on those virtues that would further bind the country as one.

“As Christmas indicates good tidings of hope and redemption, Nigerians can look forward to a turnaround in the administration’s priority areas of fighting corruption, providing security, economic diversification, job creation and infrastructure upgrade,” the president said.

“Having recently signed the 2020 appropriation bill into law, I reiterate my promise during the presentation of the Budget Proposals before the National Assembly on October 8, 2019, that, ‘We remain resolutely committed to the actualization of our vision of a bright and prosperous future for all Nigerians.’

“The 2020 budget of sustainable growth and job creation will be rigorously implemented to further deepen its impact on the generality of our people.

“As we celebrate Christmas, let us remember to pray for members of our armed forces and other security agencies who are making so much sacrifice to protect us from people of evil intent.”