President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans by the Federal Government to deploy an artificial intelligence-powered network of over 5,000 digital surveillance cameras across Plateau State as part of efforts to combat rising insecurity.
According to his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, the President made the disclosure on Thursday during a visit to Jos, where he commiserated with residents over the March 29 attacks in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which claimed several lives.
Assuring the people of the state of decisive action, Tinubu vowed that such incidents would not recur, directing security chiefs—including the Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu—to identify and apprehend those responsible for the killings.
He further stated that the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, would coordinate the immediate installation of the surveillance system in collaboration with Plateau State authorities and security agencies. The initiative will commence in Jos before being extended to other parts of the state, building on similar deployments in other regions.
Expressing deep sympathy with bereaved families, the President acknowledged the gravity of their loss, noting that no compensation could replace lives lost. He assured that justice would be pursued and support provided to affected communities. He also directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, to compile comprehensive data on victims to ensure equitable distribution of relief.
Addressing stakeholders, Tinubu stressed the importance of learning from past incidents to prevent future occurrences, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to peace, security, and inclusive development.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, described the recent violence as a temporary setback, noting that the state had previously experienced relative calm. He commended security agencies for their response and expressed confidence in ongoing efforts to restore stability.
Mutfwang also appreciated the President for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen local security architecture.
The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, lauded the President’s visit, describing it as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of Plateau. He expressed optimism that the intervention would bolster security operations and provide relief to affected families.
Former Governor Jonah David Jang called for a high-level meeting in Abuja involving key stakeholders to address the root causes of the crisis, warning against the spread of violence into urban centres.
Similarly, former Governor Simon Lalong emphasised the need for local ownership of peacebuilding efforts, asserting that sustainable solutions must come from within Plateau communities.
Also speaking, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, highlighted ongoing security challenges and called for enhanced coordination between air and ground forces, particularly as the farming season approaches.
The President’s visit and proposed measures come amid renewed efforts to curb insecurity and foster lasting peace in Plateau State.
