President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the impact of insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region, emphasizing that it affects the entire country. Speaking at a two-day summit in Katsina, organized by the North-West Governor’s Forum in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, Tinubu stressed the need for a unified approach to tackle the growing security challenges.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu highlighted that the security issues in the North-West, including banditry and terrorism, are not confined to one region but have widespread repercussions. He assured Nigerians that his administration is committed to eradicating these threats and restoring peace.
For over 15 years, Nigeria has been plagued by the Boko Haram insurgency and more recently by a surge in banditry. Boko Haram has caused devastation in the North-East, leading to thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions. Their tactics include bombings, kidnappings, and guerrilla warfare. Meanwhile, banditry in the North-West has resulted in mass abductions, village raids, and cattle rustling, creating a state of lawlessness.
In his address, titled ‘Securing Stability: Uniting for Peace in North-West Nigeria,’ Tinubu outlined the government’s pre-planned strategies to combat these inherited security challenges. He emphasized that achieving lasting peace requires addressing historical injustices that have divided communities.
Beyond the economic rationale that drove the amalgamation of the northern and southern parts of Nigeria, the formation of our great nation was inspired by the need for mutual protection,” Tinubu said. “But, I ask, how can we achieve this sacred objective if one part is afflicted?”
The President outlined several measures his administration has implemented to address the security issues. These include strengthening the country’s security infrastructure, enhancing border security, and improving intelligence capabilities. Operations such as ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ and ‘Operation Safe Haven’ have been launched to target insurgent groups like Boko Haram and bandits.
Tinubu also emphasized the importance of collaboration among the armed forces and other security agencies. He mentioned both kinetic and non-kinetic interventions, such as the Pulaku resettlement initiative, designed to address the root causes of disputes between farmers and herders. This initiative focuses on building residences, roads, schools, and essential facilities in seven states heavily affected by these conflicts.
Katsina State Governor, Umaru Radda, who is also the Chairman of the North-West Governors’ Forum, spoke on the crippling effects of banditry on socio-economic activities in the region. He called for a multifaceted approach that includes robust intelligence gathering, community policing, and advanced security technology.
Radda highlighted the importance of improving surveillance systems, investing in modern technology like drones and satellite imagery, and enhancing coordination among security agencies. He thanked President Tinubu for his efforts in tackling banditry and expressed gratitude to the security agencies for their dedication.
The summit also saw contributions from various stakeholders, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, who stressed the need for synergy between security agencies and state governors. The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, assured continuous cooperation from traditional institutions in tackling security challenges.
Germany’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, represented at the event, reiterated Germany’s support for Nigeria’s fight against insecurity. She emphasized the need to reactivate traditional solutions to conflicts. UNDP Country Representative to Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, called for investment in youth to harness their potential towards profitable ventures and stressed the importance of regional cooperation.
The summit was attended by key figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, several state governors, federal lawmakers, and members of the diplomatic corps, all united in their commitment to finding lasting solutions to the security challenges in North-West Nigeria.
