Tinubu Vows Tech-Driven Security Overhaul to Reclaim Northwest Forests from Bandits

President Bola Tinubu’s administration pledged a renewed commitment to reclaiming control of ungoverned territories, focusing on Northwest Nigeria’s forests, through advanced surveillance technology. Addressing Katsina’s community leaders at a Friday night state dinner, Tinubu declared, “We will invest more in technology and take over the forests.”

This commitment was further detailed in a Saturday statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, titled ‘Securing Forests and Enhancing Northwest Surveillance: President Tinubu’s Assurance in Katsina.’ The statement highlighted the urgent need for action.

The Northwest region has endured a decade of escalating violence. A UNIDIR study surveying 2,947 residents revealed a staggering 731% surge in bandit attacks between 2018 and 2022, resulting in 8,300 deaths and 9,527 abductions between 2019 and the first quarter of 2024—representing 62% of all nationwide kidnappings.

Katsina’s plight is particularly acute. RouteWatch’s Security Risk Index documented 277 attacks and 684 fatalities in June 2024 alone. A brutal double attack on Layin Gara and Maikuma villages on April 8, 2025, claimed six lives and left 59 residents abducted. These attacks originate from the expansive 220-kilometer Rugu Forest, a haven for over 100 armed camps spread across several Local Government Areas (LGAs), providing ample cover for the armed groups.

The economic consequences are dire. The National Bureau of Statistics reports that Katsina received zero foreign direct investment during the first nine months of 2024, mirroring the experience of 34 other states. Neighboring Kaduna State was the only northern state to attract foreign investment. The insecurity has also triggered the closure of two factories in Katsina between 2020 and 2024, reflecting a wider national trend of 102 plant closures attributed to insecurity and increased operational costs.

At the dinner, Tinubu emphasized the link between security and investment, stating, “Investment is cowardly, and it will not go where there is banditry and terrorism. We will solve this problem collaboratively with state and local governments. We will increase technological investment and regain control of our forests. Security is a national priority, not merely a local or regional concern. To attract substantial investment, we must decisively address security challenges.” He further acknowledged the security concerns raised by former governor Aminu Masari, reaffirming his commitment to combatting terrorism and banditry.

Tinubu also highlighted positive economic indicators, attributing recent growth to proactive government policies. He proposed upgrading Katsina’s airport to stimulate job creation and economic expansion, and pledged support for terrorism victims to rebuild their lives. He expressed gratitude to former Governor Masari for his support during his presidential campaign and thanked the governors of Kaduna, Jigawa, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kwara States for attending the event. He also praised President Muhammadu Buhari’s integrity and contributions to Nigeria’s development, adding, “I wish him well.”

Governor Radda announced the establishment of a state intelligence-gathering security force and projected that the planned airport expansion—encompassing a cargo terminal, passenger terminal, and fire station—would create 2,700 jobs at a cost of N54bn. Former Governor Masari thanked Tinubu for appointing two Katsina residents to the Federal Executive Council, as well as several Kaduna indigenes to key positions, including heads of agencies like the Nigerian Communications Commission and Transmission Company of Nigeria.

Explaining his support for Tinubu’s 2023 presidential bid, Masari said: “You have the political will and courage to face this nation’s challenges. You understand that change invariably faces resistance. Without strength and resolve, one succumbs, perpetuating the problem. Leadership is tested during difficult times, and I believe you possess the courage to succeed.” He concluded by advocating for a comprehensive, grassroots approach to resolving the Northwest’s security issues.