General President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicating banditry and terrorism in Nigeria, particularly in the North West, through the use of advanced surveillance technologies and strategic control of ungoverned forest regions.
Speaking at a state dinner held Friday night at the Katsina Government House, Tinubu emphasized that national security remains a top priority and that the federal government will collaborate closely with state and local authorities to confront criminal activities undermining peace and development.
In response to concerns raised by former Katsina Governor Aminu Bello Masari, the president acknowledged the persistent security challenges across the country. He reiterated his earlier promise to armed forces personnel to intensify the fight against terrorism and banditry.
“We will invest more in technology and reclaim the forests. Security is a national issue that demands collective action,” Tinubu said. “If we truly want investment in Nigeria, we must first secure it. Investment avoids areas plagued by violence. Together with the states and local councils, we will resolve this.”
The president also spoke on the nation’s economic trajectory, attributing signs of recovery to decisive policy choices by his administration. As part of efforts to stimulate regional development, Tinubu revealed plans to upgrade Katsina airport—a move expected to enhance the state’s economy and generate employment opportunities.
He assured continued federal support for terrorism victims and praised the unity of state governors present in Katsina, who gathered for both the commissioning of local projects and Governor Dikko Radda’s daughter’s wedding. Governors from Kaduna, Jigawa, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kwara were in attendance.
Governor Radda shared that Katsina State had established a specialized security unit focused on intelligence gathering. He also disclosed that the planned airport expansion, which includes a cargo terminal and new fire response infrastructure, is projected to create 2,700 direct jobs and cost ₦54 billion.
Former Governor Masari expressed gratitude to Tinubu for appointing two Katsina natives to the Federal Executive Council and for extending federal appointments to other northern leaders, including top roles in the NCC and TCN.
