On Thursday night, Defence Minister Mohammed Abubakar reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues of banditry and insecurity in Nigeria. His statements came during a courtesy visit to Kaduna’s Governor, Uba Sani, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House. This visit is part of Abubakar’s official tour across the North-West zone, signaling a focused initiative to finalize preparations for the imminent launch of ‘Operation Fansan Yamma.’ This operational framework represents a collaborative military theatre command set up specifically to counter the escalating security challenges in the region, which has been adversely affected by increasing rates of crime and violence.
Abubakar underscored the establishment of a new Command and Control Centre in the North-West, a critical step in effectively combating banditry and ensuring regional stability. Emphasizing the government’s proactive approach, he stated, “The president has charged us to be innovative and find lasting solutions to this security problem.” The minister highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts, mentioning ongoing partnerships with military counterparts in neighboring countries, especially Niger Republic, to address intertwined threats such as terrorism and arms trafficking. The recent engagement of high-level military officials with their Nigerien counterparts exemplifies the intent to strengthen security ties and share critical intelligence.
Addressing the security dynamics surrounding Sokoto and its borders with Niger, Abubakar expressed awareness of the challenges but reassured citizens that measures are being implemented to mitigate these threats. He clearly articulated that the government is actively working to improve the situation, and the partnership with Niger is aimed at curtailing the movement of arms and criminals across borders. Reaffirming the president’s resolve in facing the security crisis, Abubakar pledged the federal administration’s continued efforts to restore peace and stability across Nigeria.
In his welcome remarks, Governor Uba Sani stressed the importance of regional cooperation in strengthening security efforts. He highlighted the necessity of establishing a robust Command and Control Centre to unify actions against various criminal activities, including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. Furthermore, he called for enhancing local intelligence systems, promoting agricultural investment, improving rural infrastructure, and expanding access to education and healthcare. The governor articulated that these measures are critical not only for maintaining security but also for fostering economic recovery and social stability within the North-West zone.
Governor Sani painted a vivid picture of the adverse effects caused by insecurity in the North-West, which has historically been a vital agricultural region of Nigeria. The governor pointed to the dire consequences of ongoing violence, including food insecurity, reduced healthcare access, and an alarming rise in poverty rates. He highlighted that these challenges have triggered a worrying lack of educational opportunities; the activities of armed groups have left many children out of school. Despite these grim realities, Governor Sani expressed optimism regarding the potential impacts of Operation Fansan Yamma, positing that it would create a conducive environment for economic growth and investment in the region’s much-needed agricultural and infrastructural projects.
Moreover, Sani proposed operational adjustments, recommending that the ‘Operation Safe Haven’ initiative in Southern Kaduna be reassigned to the 1 Division in Kaduna for streamlined operational efficiency instead of remaining under the 3rd Division based in Jos, Plateau State. He emphasized the importance of fostering strong collaboration among security agencies, detailing their progress in developing a cooperative framework for enhanced intelligence gathering and strategic security coordination in Kaduna State.
In conclusion, the dialogue between the Minister of Defence and the Governor underscores not only the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling insecurity head-on but also the recognition of comprehensive, multi-faceted strategies required to address the crises facing the North-West zone of Nigeria. Both the Minister and the Governor have articulated a clear vision for restoring stability, which encompasses both immediate security measures and longer-term developmental plans aimed at alleviating the dire socio-economic impacts of insecurity in the region. The coordinated initiatives signal a new chapter in the battle against banditry and insecurity, fostering hope for better security, improved livelihoods, and a revitalized economy in North-West Nigeria.
