Tinubu Pledges Support As Regional Plan Targets Banditry Surge 

On July 16, 2025, the Northern Governors’ Forum secured a commitment from President Bola Tinubu for federal support to establish a regional security task force, as reported by The Punch. The 19 governors, led by Katsina’s Dikko Radda, proposed the task force to combat escalating banditry and insurgency in states like Zamfara and Sokoto. The plan, unveiled in Kaduna, seeks funding for drone surveillance and a coordinated unit to enhance intelligence sharing.  

Tinubu, in a statement, promised logistical support, citing the need for regional collaboration to complement national efforts. The governors linked insecurity to poverty, urging community-based solutions. Security experts, quoted by The Punch, praised the initiative, noting that localized strategies could reduce attacks that displaced 1.2 million Nigerians in 2024. Southern governors, meeting in Lagos, expressed interest in similar frameworks, citing rising kidnappings in the South-East. 

Public reactions on X show hope among northern residents, but skepticism persists due to past funding delays. The task force’s approval has sparked national discussions, with analysts suggesting it could reshape security policy if implemented effectively. Challenges include bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring community trust, particularly in Borno, where locals demand accountability. The initiative reflects growing regional assertiveness, with governors seeking greater control over security. As Nigeria battles violence costing 3% of GDP annually, the task force could influence public safety and political dynamics ahead of 2027.