By our Reporter
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced plans by the Federal Government to deploy an artificial intelligence-enabled network of over 5,000 digital cameras across Plateau State to strengthen security and combat rising insecurity.
The President made the disclosure on Thursday during a condolence visit to Jos following the March 29 attacks in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which claimed several lives.
Tinubu assured residents that such tragic incidents would not be allowed to recur, pledging decisive action against perpetrators.
“I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself,” he said.
He directed the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, the Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, and the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to track down and bring those responsible to justice.
The President also disclosed that the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijani, would oversee the immediate installation of the surveillance system in collaboration with the state government and security agencies. He noted that the initiative would begin in Jos before expanding across the state, building on similar deployments in Lagos and Enugu.
Expressing grief over the attacks, Tinubu sympathised with affected families, stating that no amount of compensation could replace lost lives. He directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, to compile comprehensive data on victims to ensure equitable distribution of government support.
Addressing stakeholders, the President stressed the need for proactive strategies to prevent future violence and urged leaders to prioritise peace, unity, and youth development.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the attack as a temporary setback, noting that the state had previously enjoyed relative peace. He commended security agencies and expressed optimism that ongoing interventions would restore stability.
The governor also thanked the President for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to bolster local security architecture.
Also speaking, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, expressed appreciation for the President’s visit, describing it as a demonstration of solidarity with the people of the state.
Former governors, including Jonah David Jang and Simon Lalong, called for a high-level meeting in Abuja involving key stakeholders to chart a lasting solution to the crisis. They emphasised that sustainable peace would require collaboration among community leaders, government, and security agencies.
Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, also highlighted the need for enhanced coordination between air and ground security forces, especially ahead of the farming season.
The President reiterated his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and security, assuring residents that all necessary measures would be taken to protect lives and property.
