In a significant move, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has initiated a complete restructuring of the nation's security apparatus, effective immediately. This sweeping change affects the leadership of the army, navy, air force, police, and defense intelligence, according to a statement released by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

This reshuffling comes as Nigeria grapples with a multitude of security challenges across various regions. These include an ongoing insurgency linked to the Islamic State in the northeast, rebel activities in the northwest, and secessionist movements in the southeast. These conflicts have tragically resulted in thousands of fatalities over the past year, with the intensity of the violence escalating.

Upon assuming the presidency in May, Tinubu prioritized security as a central focus of his administration. He pledged to bolster investment in security personnel, emphasizing not just an increase in numbers but also improvements in training, equipment, compensation, and resources.

Experts point to the strain on resources as a major contributing factor to the security issues plaguing Nigeria, which boasts both the largest population and economy in Africa. This often leaves security forces at a disadvantage in terms of both manpower and weaponry when confronting threats in volatile areas.

In addition to the security shake-up, President Tinubu also dissolved the governing boards of all government agencies. New boards are anticipated to be established and subsequently ratified by the legislature in the near future.