In a significant development, President Bola Tinubu has lauded the efforts of security forces in combating insecurity in Nigeria’s North-West region, stating that their operations have successfully disrupted and dismantled criminal networks.
This announcement was made at the North-West Peace and Security Summit, organized by the North-West Governors’ Forum in Katsina, the capital of Katsina State, on Monday.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that the progress achieved so far marks the beginning of a sustained effort to create a safer environment for all citizens. “Our military forces, through various operations such as Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Safe Haven, have fulfilled their promise to the nation by targeting groups like Boko Haram and bandits who have wreaked havoc for too long,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasized that enhanced border security and intelligence capabilities have played crucial roles in the successful disruption and dismantling of these criminal networks. “Each of you here is aware of the high-profile figureheads of these groups neutralized by our forces, and I am here to share with you that this is just the beginning,” he added.
The President dismissed claims that insecurity in the North-West is a sectional agenda, arguing that instability in any part of the nation affects the entire country.
He reiterated that securing Nigeria has been a top priority for his administration since taking office over a year ago.
President Tinubu highlighted that the government’s strategies in the North-West are beginning to yield results, and there will be no let-up until insurgents are completely eradicated.
He acknowledged that lack of collaboration among security agencies has previously hindered efforts against insecurity but revealed that the government is making substantial efforts to enhance cooperation among these agencies to ensure a unified approach.
To this end, the President noted that standard operating procedures and rules of engagement are being strictly followed in all counter-insurgency operations.
He also mentioned that the government is coordinating joint training exercises, fostering inter-agency cooperation, and improving communication and information sharing among security agencies.
The summit was attended by several dignitaries, including former President Muhammadu Buhari, Sultan of Sokoto Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Minister of Defence Muhammad Badaru, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, host Governor Umar Radda, and other North-West governors.
