The Nigerian government says it is working to secure military support from France following a phone conversation between President Bola Tinubu and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Tinubu disclosed this on Sunday in Lagos while meeting with state governors at his Ikoyi residence during the Eid-el-Fitr holiday. He said the discussion with Macron focused on military equipment and training to support Nigeria’s security forces.

According to the President, Nigeria is ready to use its existing relationships and credit arrangements to obtain the resources needed to strengthen counter-terrorism efforts.

Tinubu described insecurity as the biggest challenge facing his administration’s development plans. He called for stronger collaboration between the federal and state governments to tackle terrorism and other criminal activities.

He also told governors that addressing insecurity will require continued investment in modern technology and military equipment. He urged them to remain actively involved in efforts to improve security across the country.

The President added that similar discussions took place during his recent visit to the United Kingdom, including plans to acquire more military equipment and deepen cooperation with international partners.

The comments come after recent bomb attacks in Maiduguri, where multiple explosions reportedly killed 23 people and injured over 100 others. Following the incident, Tinubu ordered security chiefs to relocate to the city and lead response operations. Additional equipment and support were also approved to strengthen ongoing efforts.

Vice President Kashim Shettima also visited victims receiving treatment at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Beyond security, Tinubu raised concerns about the economic impact of the ongoing Middle East crisis, warning it could increase inflation, raise fuel and transport costs, and push food prices higher.

He thanked the governors for attending the meeting and urged them to continue supporting vulnerable citizens, while reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to improving security nationwide.