President Bola Tinubu has revealed the federal government’s plan to deploy advanced technology in a bid to reclaim territories from terrorists and bandits across Nigeria. Speaking during a state dinner at the Government House in Katsina on Friday night, President Tinubu outlined the government’s strategy to neutralize security threats in rural and forested areas.
In his address, the president explained that the security crisis, particularly in the Northwest, is not just a regional issue but a national concern. He highlighted the need for a coordinated response involving the federal, state, and local governments to tackle the menace of armed bandits and terrorists. “Insecurity is one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, and it requires a united front,” he said.
The president’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, shared Tinubu’s belief that technological solutions would play a key role in dismantling the strongholds of criminals. He noted that insecurity has hindered economic growth and foreign investment in the country. According to President Tinubu, the widespread fear caused by banditry and terrorism is deterring investors, both local and international, from engaging with the Nigerian economy.
“The government will invest more in technology to take control of the forests, where bandits and terrorists are hiding,” he stated. “If we want real investment in Nigeria, we must first solve the security problem.” He further promised that his administration would do everything necessary to combat terrorism and banditry, urging local and state governments to work closely with the federal government to achieve this goal.
While in Katsina, one of the states most affected by insecurity, President Tinubu also reassured the armed forces deployed to fight terrorism and banditry of the government’s full support. He acknowledged the significant toll insecurity has had on the people of Katsina, including loss of lives, displacement from homes, and destruction of farms. The president stressed that addressing insecurity would be crucial for the country’s recovery and economic development.
In his remarks, President Tinubu also addressed the state’s economy. He highlighted signs of economic recovery, which he attributed to bold policy decisions taken by his administration. In a bid to create more jobs, the president discussed plans to expand the Katsina airport, which would include the development of a cargo terminal and other facilities. This expansion, according to Tinubu, is expected to create over 2,700 direct jobs and contribute to the state’s economic growth.
Moreover, the president pledged support for victims of terrorism, stating that they would receive assistance to help them rebuild their lives. This promise of support comes as many residents in Katsina have been displaced by ongoing attacks from bandits and terrorists.
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu had met with the troops stationed in Katsina and assured them that the government would continue to back them as they fight to secure the country. He acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Aminu Bello Masari, who helped rally support for Tinubu’s presidential campaign, particularly in the Northwest region.
In his address, President Tinubu responded to concerns raised by former Governor Masari, who stressed that the insecurity in the Northwest region needs a holistic approach, with input from all levels of government. Tinubu agreed with Masari’s assessment, stating that insecurity must be addressed both from the bottom up and top down.
The president’s visit to Katsina was attended by several state governors, including those from Kaduna, Jigawa, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kwara. Tinubu thanked the governors for attending the commissioning of several projects in the state, including the planned airport expansion.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army reported that its troops are engaged in intense combat against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in Yobe State. The military operation is focused on Buni Gari, where the troops are locked in a fierce battle with the terrorist group.
In a related development, the Benue State House of Assembly has reportedly declined an invitation from the House of Representatives to address the worsening security situation in the state. The HoR had summoned both the Benue and Zamfara state assemblies and their governors to explain why their functions should not be taken over due to the security challenges.
The Benue State legislature had previously refused to honour a similar invitation by the Senate, citing constitutional issues. The refusal highlights the ongoing tensions between federal and state authorities regarding the handling of insecurity in Nigeria.
