President Bola Tinubu has pledged to reclaim Nigeria’s ungoverned forests, particularly in the Northwest, using advanced technology and surveillance to combat banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Tinubu made this declaration while speaking at a state dinner in Katsina on Friday night in response to concerns raised by former Katsina Governor Aminu Bello Masari.
Tinubu declared that his administration would intensify security operations in the region, emphasising that economic growth depends on safety.
Tinubu stated, “On the issue of security raised by former governor Aminu Bello Masari again this evening, yes, I agree that security is a challenge for the country. I addressed the men and women of the armed forces earlier today and assured them that we will do everything to fight terrorism and banditry.
“We will invest more in technology and take over the forests. 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, and it will not go where there is banditry and terrorism. We will solve the problem together with the states and local councils.”
President also assured that victims of terrorism will receive support to pick up their lives.
He announced plans that the federal government will consider upgrading the airport in Katsia State to create jobs and expand the economy.
In response to this, Governor Dikko Radda said the proposed airport expansion, including the cargo terminal, customer terminal, and fire truck, would create 2,700 direct jobs and cost N54 billion.
Radda added that the state had established a security outfit that gathers and supplies intelligence
