Minister of Information, Muhammad Idiris, has urged media practitioners to be cautious in their reporting so as not to inadvertently aid bandits and kidnappers.
He also revealed that in February 2024 alone, the Nigerian Armed Forces successfully neutralized 974 terrorists, apprehended 621 suspects, rescued 466 hostages, and recovered 1,573 weapons. During a Ramadan Iftar event in Kano, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Nigerians and visitors to the country.
He highlighted the efforts of security agencies in acquiring new weapons and equipment to strengthen the fight against banditry and terrorism, including the induction of four new aircraft by the Nigerian Air Force.
The Minister further stated that the military, with support from the police and intelligence agencies, has been actively targeting bandits’ and terrorists’ camps and hideouts, particularly in the North-West and the FCT, resulting in significant progress.
He cited the improved security situation in Abuja and the increased number of people safely traveling on routes like the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway as evidence of the positive outcomes. Additionally, Idiris mentioned the Federal Government’s Pulako Initiative, which aims to combat banditry and cattle rustling in seven frontline states with a budget of 50 billion Naira.
He stated that as part of the Initiative, the Nigerian Federal Government would construct houses, clinics, schools, veterinary hospitals, empowerment programs, solar energy facilities, and other essential infrastructure in communities most impacted by banditry.
The fight against oil theft has intensified, with over 6,000 illegal refineries shut down and more than 4,000 illegal pipelines disconnected, leading to a steady increase in oil production from 1.22 million barrels per day in Q2 2023 to 1.55 million barrels per day in Q4 2023.
Notably, in the North Central region, the efforts of security forces have significantly reduced farmer-herder clashes to minimal levels.
Progress has been made in enhancing security in Niger State through collaborative efforts involving the Armed Forces, state government, and local communities, resulting in a decrease in bandit attacks and extortion of farmers.
While acknowledging occasional attacks by bandits and criminal elements in certain areas, the speaker emphasized that these isolated incidents do not undermine the overall advancements made in safeguarding the lives of community members.
