The Federal Government has announced plans to deploy artificial intelligence-powered surveillance cameras across Plateau State, starting with the state capital, Jos, as part of renewed efforts to address insecurity in the region.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, disclosed the plan shortly after Bola Tinubu visited Jos following a recent attack that left at least 28 people dead and several others injured.
The attack, which occurred around Palm Sunday, has once again drawn national attention to the long-standing security challenges in Plateau State, an area that has experienced repeated outbreaks of violence over the years.
In a statement shared on his official page on X (formerly Twitter), Tijani reflected on his personal experience during one of the earliest major crises in the state. He recalled being a 24-year-old student at the University of Jos during the 2001 violence that shook the city.
“I was 24, a student at the University of Jos, when the first major attack struck our city,” the minister said. “Twenty-five years later, Jos is still searching for lasting peace.”
The 2001 Jos crisis marked one of the most significant outbreaks of violence in the city’s history. It involved clashes that led to loss of lives and destruction of property, setting a pattern of recurring unrest in the state. Since then, Plateau has witnessed several similar incidents, often linked to ethnic, religious, and land-related tensions.
Tijani described the situation as deeply personal, noting that his experience has shaped his commitment to finding lasting solutions to insecurity in the region.
“This is not just a memory for me; it is a responsibility,” he said, adding that ensuring peace in Jos is one of the most important tasks his ministry will undertake.
According to the minister, the new plan involves deploying a network of artificial intelligence-enabled cameras that can monitor activities in real time. These cameras are expected to improve security by helping authorities detect crimes early, respond faster to incidents, and better coordinate operations among security agencies.
Speaking during a press briefing alongside state officials, Tijani said the project would be carried out in partnership with the Plateau State Government. He noted that the initiative goes beyond installing cameras and includes strengthening the state’s digital infrastructure.
“We will work with the governor to deepen the core digital infrastructure,” he said. “On top of that, we will install a network of AI-enabled cameras all over the state, starting with Jos.”
He assured Nigerians that the plan is practical and achievable, pointing out that similar systems have already been introduced in other parts of the country, including Lagos State and Enugu State.
According to him, these systems have shown positive results in improving surveillance and supporting security operations.
The minister also highlighted that the Federal Government is committed to using modern technology to address security challenges. He said the use of artificial intelligence in surveillance is becoming more common globally and can play a key role in improving safety.
President Tinubu, who recently visited the state, directed that the surveillance system be implemented as part of broader efforts to restore peace. During his visit, he met with local leaders, security officials, and victims of the recent attack.
The President noted that technology can help security agencies respond more effectively to threats. He said real-time monitoring would allow authorities to track suspicious activities and act quickly before situations escalate.
Plateau State has long been considered one of Nigeria’s most sensitive regions when it comes to communal conflict. The state’s diverse population includes different ethnic and religious groups, and disputes over land and resources have often led to clashes.
In recent years, attacks on rural communities have increased, with many residents forced to leave their homes. The latest violence, which claimed 28 lives, is one of several incidents that have kept the state in the spotlight.
Residents have repeatedly called for stronger security measures and better protection from both state and federal authorities. The introduction of surveillance technology is expected to be part of a broader strategy to improve safety.
Tijani acknowledged that the situation remains challenging but expressed confidence that the new measures would make a difference. He said his ministry would mobilise all available resources to support the project and ensure its success.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration between different levels of government and security agencies. According to him, effective security requires not just technology but also coordination and trust among stakeholders.
The plan to deploy AI cameras is part of a wider push by the Federal Government to modernise Nigeria’s digital infrastructure. In recent years, there has been increased focus on using technology to improve governance, security, and public services.
While the success of the initiative will depend on proper implementation, many observers see it as a step in the right direction. They believe that combining technology with other measures could help reduce violence and improve safety in affected areas.
For residents of Jos and other parts of Plateau State, the hope is that these efforts will bring lasting peace and prevent further loss of lives.
As the government moves forward with the plan, attention will be on how quickly the project is implemented and whether it delivers the expected results.