Tony Elumelu, Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA), has called on President Bola Tinubu to make national security a top priority to combat the ongoing food scarcity and attract foreign and local investments to Nigeria.

Elumelu made this statement during the Annual Conference of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) held in Abuja.

In his remarks, Elumelu emphasized the direct link between security and the well-being of the country, stressing that without a safe environment, essential activities such as farming, business operations, and trade are severely compromised.

“To protect our people, feed them, attract investment, and foster trade, we must prioritise security,” Elumelu said.

He further pointed out that insecurity has reached a crisis level in the country, which calls for urgent and decisive action.

“Insecurity has become a national crisis, which must be dealt with decisively and urgently.

Our people deserve to go to their farms unhindered, live peacefully and conduct their lives and businesses without fear; it is the fundamental right of every citizen,” he added.

Elumelu also highlighted the crucial role that the banking sector plays in Nigeria’s economy.

He described it as a cornerstone of national development, acknowledging how the sector has evolved into one of the country’s success stories over the past few decades.

According to him, the banking industry not only provides employment for millions of people but also offers vital financial support to countless businesses, contributing significantly to the nation’s growth.

Moreover, the sector generates income for millions of shareholders, further strengthening its position as a key economic driver.

On the other hand, President Tinubu, in a message delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the same conference, echoed the need for security while also urging the business and banking communities to focus on capacity building, talent development, and youth empowerment.

These, according to the President, are essential pillars for driving Nigeria’s economic growth and fostering innovation.

Tinubu’s administration, as he revealed, has placed significant emphasis on empowering the youth and enhancing the nation’s digital capabilities.

In line with this, the government is currently training three million Nigerian youths in digital technology and other essential skills, with plans to integrate them into innovative firms across the country.

“We are committed to achieving a 70 per cent digital literacy level by 2027 through collaboration and innovation,” Tinubu noted.

He further stressed that investing in the nation’s youth is vital for ensuring future prosperity.

“We must focus on capacity building, talent development, and youth empowerment.

These are the hands of our youth, and we must equip them with the skills, knowledge, and opportunities needed to drive our nation forward,” he concluded.

Both Elumelu and Tinubu’s messages underscore the importance of security and capacity building in addressing Nigeria’s immediate challenges and paving the way for long-term growth.

While Elumelu’s focus on security reflects the urgent need to restore peace and stability, Tinubu’s emphasis on empowering young people highlights the administration’s commitment to preparing the next generation to lead the nation’s future innovation and economic success.