Tinubu Vows to Reclaim Forests, Strengthen Surveillance to Combat Insecurity

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has pledged his administration’s resolve to reclaim Nigeria’s ungoverned forests and enhance surveillance efforts, particularly in the North West, as part of intensified measures to tackle terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry.

Speaking at a state dinner with Katsina elders and leaders at the Government House on Friday night, the President acknowledged ongoing security challenges and emphasized the federal government’s commitment to investing in technology-driven solutions to restore peace.

“We will invest more in technology and take over the forests,” President Tinubu said. “Security is a national issue, not just at the local or regional levels. If we genuinely need investment in Nigeria, we must address security. Investment is cowardly; it will not go where there is banditry and terrorism.”

In a statement by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy on Saturday, the President also assured that victims of insecurity would receive support to rebuild their lives, while promising job creation through infrastructure projects, including a proposed upgrade of the Katsina airport.

Highlighting signs of economic recovery, Tinubu credited bold policy decisions for positive growth indicators and expressed optimism about the nation’s trajectory.

Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda briefed the gathering on the state’s security initiatives, including a local intelligence outfit, and revealed plans for the airport expansion project, expected to cost N54 billion and create over 2,700 direct jobs.

Former Governor Aminu Bello Masari commended the President’s leadership, attributing his support for Tinubu’s 2023 presidential bid to his political courage and determination to confront Nigeria’s challenges.

The event was attended by governors from Kaduna, Jigawa, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kwara states, who were also in Katsina for official project commissioning and a family wedding ceremony hosted by Governor Radda.

President Tinubu concluded by praising Katsina’s contributions to national leadership and extended warm wishes to former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling him a man of integrity.