The Chairman of the Code of Conduct Tribunal (CCT), Dr. Mainasara Umar Kogo, has urged decisive military action to combat banditry and terrorism in Nigeria.
Speaking at the 2025 Sir Ahmadu Bello National Annual Memorial Conference held at Arewa House, Kaduna, Kogo called for the bombardment of nine key forests in Northern Nigeria that serve as terrorist hideouts.
He identified the forests as Sambisa (Borno), Mandara Mountains (Lake Chad region), Falgore (Kano), Rugu (Katsina), Sabon Birni (Sokoto), Dansadau (Zamfara), Birnin-Gwari (Kaduna), Kontagora (Niger), and Birnin Kogo (Katsina). According to Kogo, eliminating these hideouts would cripple terrorist activities in the region.
To ensure long-term stability, he proposed transforming these areas into industrial agricultural zones to create jobs, enhance food production, and boost economic activities. Kogo emphasized the need for large-scale farming projects and the development of supporting infrastructure, including roads, settlements, and industries.
“We must take drastic measures to address the security challenges facing our nation. Bombing these hideouts and replacing them with agricultural hubs will eliminate the menace and tackle unemployment simultaneously,” Kogo stated.
The CCT Chairman also called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s security framework. He suggested establishing specialized security agencies such as the National Border Security Police, National Ports Police, National Airports Police, National Cyber Crime Police, and National Anti-Terrorism Police.
Kogo further stressed the importance of auditing security expenditures over the past 20 years to promote accountability and transparency. He questioned the efficiency of past investments in military equipment, highlighting the need for results-driven reforms.
Earlier, Ahmed Abdullahi, National President of Gamji Heritage, called for unity among Nigerians to address pressing national challenges, including economic decline and insecurity. He highlighted the enduring legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, noting his contributions to education, infrastructure, and regional development.
The conference provided a platform for stakeholders to deliberate on Northern Nigeria’s challenges and propose actionable solutions for national cohesion and stability. Other speakers included Ambassador Ibrahim Mai Sule, Vice Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, and Prof. Abubakar Saddique Mohammed, Director-General of the Centre for Democratic Development Research and Training, Zaria.
Abdullahi urged authorities to take decisive steps to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in achieving a united and prosperous nation.
“Our commitment to progress remains unwavering. With Allah’s guidance, we will overcome these challenges and build a stronger Nigeria,” Abdullahi concluded.
