President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reclaiming ungoverned areas in Nigeria, particularly forests in the North-West.

The president vowed to deploy advanced surveillance and technology to combat kidnapping, banditry and terrorism.

He made the promise when he addressed Katsina elders and leaders at a state dinner held at the Government House on Friday, Bayo Onanuga, his spokesman, said in a statement on Saturday.

“On the issue of security raised by former Governor Aminu Masari again this evening, yes, I agree that security is a challenge for the country.

“I addressed the men and women of the armed forces earlier today and assured them that we will do everything to fight terrorism and banditry.

“We will invest more in technology and take over the forests. Security is a national issue, not just at the local or regional levels. If we genuinely need investment in Nigeria, we must address security,” said Mr Tinubu.

He assured that the federal government would solve the problem together with the states and local councils.

Mr Tinubu highlighted encouraging signs of Nigeria’s economic recovery, attributing recent positive growth indicators to bold policy decisions.

He said the federal government would consider upgrading the airport in Katsina State to create jobs and expand the economy, assuring the people that victims of terrorism would receive support to pick up their lives.

The president thanked Mr Masari for ensuring that he got the endorsement of the North-West and emerged as the APC presidential candidate.

Mr Tinubu acknowledged the leadership roles of Katsina indigenes in the country. He described former President Muhammadu Buhari as a man of integrity who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s development and wished him well.

In his remarks, Governor Dikko Radda said the state had established a security outfit that gathered and supplied intelligence.

He said the proposed airport expansion, including the cargo terminal, customer terminal, and fire truck, would create 2,700 direct jobs and cost N54 billion.

Mr Masari thanked the president for appointing two ministers from the state to the Federal Executive Council.

On why he supported the president’s ambition to contest the 2023 elections, he said, “You have the political will and courage to face the challenges of this country.

“You know the problem with humans: There will be resistance when new changes and a new social order are coming. And if you are not strong enough and determined, you will succumb, and the problem continues.

“But leadership is not about when it is all well. The hard way is the best; you know leaders during hard times. I know and believe you can do it; you have the courage.”

(NAN)