President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces of Nigeria to deploy advanced military hardware and surveillance technology in Katsina State to curb escalating banditry and protect vulnerable communities.
The directive came during a meeting at the State House on Tuesday evening with a delegation of Katsina leaders led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda.
In a statement signed by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, the President emphasised that insecurity remains Nigeria’s foremost challenge, particularly in states like Katsina that have borne the brunt of bandit attacks. He assured that his administration would not relent until Nigerians can live, work, and worship without fear.
“The security challenges we are facing are surmountable. Yes, we inherited weaknesses, including porous borders, but we must fix them. I have directed all the security agencies to energise further, acquire additional drones, and submit daily operational reports on Katsina,” Tinubu said.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to community-based security solutions, including the possibility of establishing state police forces and strengthening recently deployed forest guards. Tinubu criticised attempts to politicise the state police debate, stressing that localised policing remains key to lasting security.
On national unity, the President assured that his government would immortalise the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing him as a leader who left behind “a legacy of success and continuity.”
“President Buhari didn’t hand over a defeated country or a battered structure, but a legacy that we must build on. It is our duty to protect our children, livelihoods, and places of worship. They cannot intimidate us—we will defeat insecurity,” he added.
Governor Radda, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the President for prioritising Katsina both in terms of infrastructure and political appointments.
“Mr. President, I want to say before our elders that I never came to you with a request that was rejected. Katsina appreciates your commitment. You are a true son of the state, and we thank you for sharing in our burdens,” the governor said, while appealing for greater federal support in youth empowerment and critical infrastructure.
Former Governor Aminu Bello Masari also lauded Tinubu for the state funeral accorded to late President Buhari, describing it as “a mark of deep respect.”
The Waziri of Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, commended the administration’s focus on infrastructure, including the Kano–Maradi rail line, and called for the upgrade of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport. He further urged the Federal Government to increase security presence in southern Katsina, where rural communities remain exposed to violent attacks.
With fresh military deployments, heightened surveillance, and ongoing dialogue with local leaders, the Tinubu administration insists that the battle to secure Katsina—and by extension, Nigeria—is entering a decisive phase.
