The federal government plans to roll out advanced technology in its bid to reclaim territories, particularly forests, from terrorists and bandits across the country, President Bola Tinubu has said.
A coordinated response by all tiers of government to the menace of the gunmen is evolving, he said during a state dinner hosted in his honour at the Government House in Katsina on Friday night.
According to him, enhanced surveillance and security technologies will be deployed to neutralise threats in rural and forested regions across the country.
He emphasised that the persistent insecurity in parts of the country, particularly the Northwest, was not just a local or regional matter but a national concern that required a united front involving federal, state and local governments.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, quoted him as saying technological solutions would play a key role in dismantling criminal strongholds and restoring confidence among investors.
He described insecurity as one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges, noting that without addressing it comprehensively, economic growth and foreign investment would remain elusive.
The President explained that banditry and terrorism have created an atmosphere of fear that deters local and international investors.
He had earlier on Friday addressed troops and personnel of the armed forces deployed in the fight against terrorism in Katsina, assuring them of full government’s support in carrying out the assignment.
Katsina is one of the states most affected by rural insecurity which has claimed many lives and forced thousands off their farms and homes.
He particularly took note of comments by a former governor of the state, Alhaji Aminu Bello Masari, on the security situation, and said: “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.
