President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reassured residents of Oyo State and the South-West that the Federal Government is intensifying efforts to tackle insecurity and secure the release of schoolchildren and teachers abducted in Oriire Local Council of Oyo State.

Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, gave the assurance during the commissioning of the remodelled and expanded Premier Hotel in Ibadan.

He said that the Federal Government had deployed all available resources, including international collaboration, to ensure the safe return of the abductees and combat the rising wave of banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes across the country.

The President urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies through intelligence sharing and community cooperation, stressing that traditional and religious institutions also have critical roles to play in safeguarding communities.

According to him, sustainable economic growth can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and security, adding that the administration has continued to strengthen the country’s security architecture through enhanced intelligence gathering, improved inter-agency collaboration, technological surveillance and support for security agencies.

He, however, disclosed that efforts were underway at the to strengthen policing structures nationwide.

Tinubu expressed optimism that ongoing reforms in the security sector were yielding positive results in several parts of the country and would continue until Nigerians live and conduct businesses without fear.

He noted that investors’ confidence was gradually improving, strategic investments were increasing and key sectors of the economy showing renewed momentum.

The President described the redevelopment of Premier Hotel as a strong vote of confidence in Nigeria’s future and a reflection of growing investor optimism.

He, therefore, urged investors to take advantage of opportunities in the country, assuring them that the government remains committed to creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.

Earlier, Tinubu described the rehabilitation of the iconic hospitality facility as the restoration of a national asset with deep historical significance.

He commended the six South-West states that own Odu’a Investment Company Limited for preserving and modernising one of the region’s most enduring assets.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Muisibau Babatunde, described the project as a landmark achievement in restoring one of Nigeria’s most iconic hospitality establishments.

Also speaking, Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, said the redevelopment demonstrated how heritage preservation and economic modernisation could work together to drive sustainable development.

In his welcome address, Chairman of Odu’a Investment Company Limited, Bimbo Ashiru, said the commissioning marked the rebirth of one of Nigeria’s most historic hospitality assets.