Tinubu Pledges to Reclaim Forests, Boost Surveillance in North-West During Katsina Visit

By Achimi Muktar

In a fiery and determined speech delivered in Katsina, President Bola Tinubu vowed to reclaim Nigeria's vast forests from terrorists and bandits, declaring an all-out technological and strategic assault on the insecurity crippling the North-west and beyond.

Addressing elders and leaders during a state dinner at the Katsina Government House on Friday night, Tinubu did not mince words about the scale of the challenge. But he assured his audience — and indeed the nation — that his administration is fully committed to regaining control of every ungoverned inch of Nigerian territory.

“We will invest more in technology and take over the forests,” the president said, referencing persistent security concerns raised by former governor Aminu Bello Masari. “Security is a national issue… If we genuinely need investment in Nigeria, we must address security. Investment is cowardly, and it will not go where there is banditry and terrorism.”

The president’s remarks come amid increasing attacks by bandits and kidnappers in rural communities, often using forests as their hideouts. Tinubu emphasized that this renewed effort would involve collaboration between federal, state, and local governments, with surveillance systems and modern technology at the heart of the security overhaul.

In a show of unity and support, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) also applauded the federal government’s peace efforts, especially in violence-stricken Middle Belt states like Plateau, Benue, and Gombe. CAN described Tinubu’s push for peace as “timely and commendable.”

Beyond security, Tinubu painted a picture of cautious economic optimism. He pointed to encouraging signs of economic recovery, which he credited to “bold policy decisions,” and hinted at infrastructure upgrades — including a plan to revamp Katsina’s airport to spur job creation and economic growth in the region.

The president also extended his compassion to victims of terrorism, promising them renewed support to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

During the dinner, Tinubu took time to acknowledge key political allies, including former governor Masari, whom he thanked for securing vital North-west backing during his presidential campaign. He also lauded the presence of governors from Kaduna, Jigawa, Borno, Benue, Yobe, Sokoto, and Kwara, who were in town for the inauguration of state projects and the wedding of Governor Radda’s daughter.

In closing, Tinubu paid tribute to Katsina’s rich political legacy, singling out former President Muhammadu Buhari as a man of “integrity” who left a lasting impact on Nigeria’s development.

With this bold declaration from Katsina, Nigerians — especially those in the troubled northern regions — are now watching closely to see if Tinubu can match words with action and finally bring peace to the forests that have long been under siege.