Tinubu orders security overhaul in Katsina, backs state police, forest guard upgrade

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has ordered a comprehensive review of security operations in Katsina State following renewed bandit attacks, pledging to deploy advanced military hardware, surveillance drones, and better-equipped forest guards to restore peace.

Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of Katsina leaders led by Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, Tinubu confirmed that the federal government is considering the establishment of state police to strengthen grassroots security.

He criticised the politicisation of state police proposals, stressing that security outfits tailored to local terrains and cultures are essential to tackling banditry and other crimes.

“The security challenges we are facing are surmountable. Yes, we have porous borders and inherited weaknesses, but we must fix them,” the President said. “I have directed security agencies to energise further and review their strategies. We have approved the acquisition of additional drones. I want daily feedback on operations in Katsina.”

Tinubu assured that efforts to modernise the security architecture would include strengthening the role of forest guards recently deployed in parts of the country.

He also pledged to immortalise former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing his passing as “a loss for all of us,” but emphasising that Buhari “left a legacy of success, not a defeated country.”

Governor Radda thanked Tinubu for supporting Katsina with key appointments and infrastructure projects while requesting further assistance in security, youth empowerment, and development.

Former Governor Aminu Bello Masari commended the President for honouring Buhari with a state funeral, while the Waziri of Katsina, Senator Ibrahim Ida, urged the federal government to prioritise security in the southern part of the state and upgrade the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport.