The Federal Government has announced significant progress in its efforts to tackle security challenges in Nigeria.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, revealed that over 35 aircraft have been procured to enhance security operations.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, disclosed on Wednesday while speaking on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme.
Addressing concerns about whether the insecurity amounts to a failure of government, the minister noted that the security crisis has deep roots but was being approached with unprecedented resolve.
“This has been happening for decades. Government has a great responsibility to ensure that people’s lives and property are protected, that’s the first role of government.
“President Tinubu recognises that, and that’s why he feels pain. Look at the investment he has made in security since taking office: over 35 helicopters and airplanes have been procured, about four naval vessels, and large quantities of ammunition to fight criminal elements.”
Providing further figures, Idris revealed, “The latest statistics show that over 13,500 criminal elements have been eliminated.
”Their leaders have also been targeted and taken out. Around 120,000 of them have surrendered, and 17,000 people have been reunited with their families,” he said.
Idris emphasised that President Bola Tinubu was fully aware of the security realities in the country and was resolute in addressing them.
“President Tinubu is not the kind of president who does not see what happens around him. He sees, he knows, and discusses with all of us his ministers and key advisers.
“He knows what he is doing, and I can assure you that President Bola Tinubu is going to fix this,” Idris said.
The minister highlighted the complexity of the crisis, emphasising the need for a holistic approach, including cooperation with neighboring countries.
Idris noted that “real synergy” has been forged within the security architecture under Tinubu’s leadership.
Meanwhile, during the high-level stakeholder meeting at the Benue State Government House, President Tinubu directed security chiefs to intensify operations.
The President has also instructed intelligence agencies to enhance surveillance and data gathering to prevent future attacks.
“Police, I hope your men are on alert to listen to information. How come no arrest has been made? I expect there should be an arrest of those criminals,” he told them.
“Christopher (the Chief of Defence Staff), you have given much. I watch your comments, you can’t be tired of staying in the bush.
”Oloyede and the Air Marshal, we thank all of you, but we need to keep our ears to the ground, let’s get those criminals, let’s get them out.”
The President further instructed intelligence agencies to enhance surveillance and data gathering.
Tinubu said, “DG NIA, DG SSS, retool your information channels and let’s have tangible intelligence so that this will not occur again.”
He also announced the creation of a peace-building committee involving traditional leaders such as the Tor Tiv V and Och’Idoma, aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
The meeting was attended by top officials, including Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, SGF George Akume, service chiefs, lawmakers, and governors from the North-Central zone.
The state had declared a public holiday in honour of the President’s visit.
