President Bola Tinubu emphasized the success of security forces in combating North-West insecurity. Speaking at the North-West Peace and Security Summit in Katsina, he reiterated his administration’s top priority: a safer Nigeria.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu assured Nigerians that recent progress marks only the beginning. The government continues to work towards a more secure environment for all citizens.
Tinubu dismissed claims of a sectional agenda in addressing North-West insecurity. He argued that any regional instability affects the entire nation. He stressed the administration’s commitment to securing Nigeria, a promise made over a year ago.
The government’s strategies in fighting North-West insecurity have started to show results. There will be no slowdown until insurgents are dismantled.
Security experts have often cited non-collaboration among agencies as a major issue. However, Tinubu revealed efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration. This unified approach aims to enhance the fight against insurgency.
Standard operating procedures and rules of engagement are being strictly followed. The government is coordinating joint training, inter-agency cooperation, communication, and information sharing.
Dignitaries at the summit included former President Muhammadu Buhari, Sultan of Sokoto, and several North-West governors. Minister of Defence Muhammad Badaru and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu also attended.
Shettima, reading Tinubu’s address, noted the historical need for mutual protection in Nigeria’s formation. He emphasized that national security in the North-West is not a sectional agenda.
The administration’s roadmap to peace involves addressing historical injustices, reversing institutional frailties, and countering ideological mischief. The goal is a region where every trade is safe, and every group is at peace.
Tinubu highlighted how land-use disputes, climate change, and overwhelmed security forces have fueled conflicts. Unauthorized arms and corruption have exacerbated the crisis. The administration is determined to end these conflicts.
The government tasked North-West and North-East officials with regional security. Military operations like Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Safe Haven target insurgent groups like Boko Haram and bandits.
Enhanced border security and intelligence capabilities have disrupted criminal networks. Strengthened collaborations among security agencies ensure a unified approach to security.
The government’s interventions aim to build a secure environment for all citizens. This includes safe schools, secure travel, and fear-free markets.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda emphasized the federal and local responsibility in fighting insecurity. He called for a multifaceted approach, including robust intelligence, community policing, and advanced security technologies.
The UNDP’s Elsie Gyekyeua Atafauh praised the summit as a step towards peace and development in Northern Nigeria. She emphasized the importance of North-West security for Nigeria’s standing as Africa’s giant.
Source: The Guardian
