President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has unveiled plans by the Federal Government to deploy more than 5,000 artificial intelligence-powered surveillance cameras across Plateau State as part of efforts to curb rising insecurity.
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, following the president’s visit to Jos on Thursday. During the visit, Tinubu sympathised with residents over the March 29 attacks in the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos North, which resulted in multiple fatalities.
Assuring residents of improved security, Tinubu vowed that such incidents would not recur, declaring, “I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself.”
He directed top security officials, including the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Inspector-General of Police, to track down those responsible for the killings and ensure justice is served.
The President also tasked Bosun Tijjani, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, with overseeing the immediate installation of the AI-enabled camera systems. The rollout will begin in Jos before expanding across the state, building on similar security infrastructure already deployed in Lagos and Enugu.
Expressing grief over the tragic events, Tinubu noted the emotional toll on affected families, stating that no compensation can replace lost lives. He assured victims of the government’s commitment to justice and support.
Additionally, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs was directed to compile a comprehensive list of victims to ensure fair distribution of relief and assistance.
Calling for proactive steps, Tinubu urged leaders to learn from past incidents and prioritise lasting peace. He stressed that both federal and state governments were elected to ensure safety, prosperity, and inclusiveness.
Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the attack as a temporary setback, noting that the state had previously enjoyed relative peace. He expressed confidence in ongoing security efforts and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to defeat insecurity.
Mutfwang also appreciated the President for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen local security operations.
Meanwhile, APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda commended Tinubu for standing with the people of Plateau, expressing optimism that the visit would boost security and provide comfort to victims.
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 that the spread of violence into urban areas was deeply concerning.
Another former governor, Simon Lalong, emphasised that lasting peace must come from within the state, urging unity among Plateau residents to resolve the crisis.
Similarly, former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, stressed the need for stronger collaboration between air and ground forces, especially as the farming season approaches, noting recent casualties in parts of the state.
The President reiterated the government’s determination to restore peace and prevent further violence in Plateau.
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