President Bola Tinubu has directed the Armed Forces of Nigeria to deploy advanced military hardware, including surveillance drones, to strengthen counter-banditry operations in Katsina State.
The directive was issued on Tuesday during a meeting with Katsina leaders led by Governor Dikko Radda at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. Tinubu stressed the urgency of tackling insecurity across the country, beginning with vulnerable states like Katsina.
He said the Federal Government is considering the establishment of state police and the empowerment of newly deployed forest guards to enhance community-based security. The president criticised those politicising state policing, noting that localised security outfits are best suited to understand community terrain and culture.
“The security challenges we are facing are surmountable,” Tinubu said. “We inherited weaknesses, but we must fix them. I have instructed all security agencies to strengthen strategies, and we have approved the acquisition of additional drones. I will be receiving daily operational reports on Katsina to ensure constant oversight.”
Tinubu also assured that former President Muhammadu Buhari would be honoured, describing him as leaving behind a legacy of stability and national continuity. “He didn’t hand over a defeated country, but one with a foundation for success,” Tinubu added.
Governor Radda thanked the president for prioritising Katsina through security measures, federal appointments, and infrastructure projects. He appealed for further federal support in youth empowerment and critical development initiatives.
Former Governor Aminu Masari also expressed gratitude for the state funeral accorded to Buhari, calling it a mark of respect. The Waziri of Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, praised Tinubu’s commitment to infrastructure, especially the Kano–Maradi Rail project, and urged for an upgrade of the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport. He further called for increased federal security presence in southern Katsina to restore peace in the region.