President Bola Tinubu expressed deep concern on Monday over the escalating insecurity in the North-West region of Nigeria, emphasizing its broader implications for national stability. Speaking at the ‘Regional Cooperation for Securing Lives and Livelihoods in North West Nigeria’ summit in Katsina, he underscored that the security challenges in the North-West were not isolated but had significant repercussions across the entire nation.
In his address, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, acknowledged the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s security landscape, asserting, “Whenever any part of the country is ailing, others will be affected.” He reassured Nigerians of his administration’s unwavering commitment to eradicate banditry, terrorism, and other forms of insecurity plaguing the nation.
Nigeria has grappled with profound security threats in recent years, primarily the enduring Boko Haram insurgency in the North-East and the escalating banditry in the North-West. Boko Haram, known for its brutal tactics including bombings and kidnappings, has inflicted widespread devastation, leading to countless casualties and displacements over more than a decade. Meanwhile, in the North-West, banditry has surged, characterized by mass abductions, raids on villages, and cattle rustling, exacerbating a climate of lawlessness and fear.
Tinubu highlighted the strategic approach his administration has taken to confront these inherited security challenges, emphasizing the need to address historical injustices that have fractured communities. He articulated, “Achieving the peace we seek necessitates addressing the historical injustices that have torn communities apart.”
The President outlined a multifaceted strategy encompassing institutional reforms in security and economic sectors, countering ideological extremism, and enhancing state presence through policing and military operations. He stressed the importance of regional collaboration and integrated security efforts to ensure a cohesive response to the crises facing the North, including conflicts between herders and farmers and pervasive cattle rustling.
Detailing specific measures implemented, Tinubu credited military operations like ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ and ‘Operation Safe Haven’ for targeting insurgent groups and dismantling criminal networks. He underscored the role of enhanced border security and intelligence capabilities in disrupting criminal activities and restoring stability.
Moreover, Tinubu advocated for holistic interventions combining kinetic (military) and non-kinetic approaches to bolster the nation’s security infrastructure comprehensively. He described initiatives like the Pulaku resettlement program, aimed at addressing root causes of disputes and insecurity in the North-West, particularly in states disproportionately affected by farmers-herders conflicts.
“The Pulaku Initiative is a timely solution to mitigate conflict and promote peaceful coexistence,” Tinubu affirmed, referring to the cultural and ethical principles integral to the Fulani community. He emphasized the program’s initial focus on seven states, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Benue, Katsina, Zamfara, Niger, and Kaduna, where tensions between farmers and herders have been most acute.
Looking forward, Tinubu called for concerted efforts and national unity in tackling Nigeria’s security challenges, emphasizing the imperative of creating safe environments for education, commerce, and agriculture. He concluded, “We cannot achieve this unless we come together.”
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s remarks underscored both the severity of Nigeria’s current security crises and the comprehensive approach his administration is undertaking to restore stability and foster sustainable peace in the North-West and beyond. His call for collaborative action and targeted interventions reflects a commitment to addressing the complex root causes of insecurity, aiming to build a more secure and prosperous future for all Nigerians.
