President Bola Tinubu has announced plans by the Federal Government to deploy an artificial intelligence-powered surveillance network of over 5,000 digital cameras across Plateau State as part of renewed efforts to combat insecurity.

The President made the declaration on Thursday during a visit to Jos, following the March 29 gun attacks in the Angwan Rukuba area of Jos North Local Government Area, which claimed several lives.

Addressing residents and stakeholders, Tinubu assured the people that such tragic incidents would not recur. “I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself,” he said.

He directed the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd), the Chief of Army Staff, Gen. Waidi Shaibu, and the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for the killings, insisting that security agencies must “unearth and find the killers” of innocent citizens.

Tinubu also disclosed that the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, would supervise the immediate rollout of the surveillance infrastructure in collaboration with Plateau State authorities and security agencies. The project, he noted, will commence in Jos before expanding to other parts of the state, building on similar initiatives in Lagos and Enugu.

The President expressed deep sorrow over the attacks, sympathising with affected families and acknowledging the emotional toll of the violence. “No amount of money can recompense for lost souls,” he said, urging residents to find solace while the government works to restore peace.

As part of relief efforts, Tinubu directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro, to compile comprehensive data on victims to ensure equitable distribution of government assistance.

He further stressed the need for proactive strategies to prevent future violence, urging leaders to learn from past experiences and prioritise peace and security. “We were elected to bring prosperity, inclusiveness, and hope—not to console widows and widowers,” he stated.

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the recent attacks as a setback, noting that the state had enjoyed relative peace prior to the incident. He commended security agencies for their efforts and expressed confidence in ongoing interventions.

“We will win this war against insecurity,” Mutfwang said, while thanking the President for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen local security operations.

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, also lauded the President’s visit, expressing optimism that it would bolster security efforts and provide comfort to affected communities.

Former Governor Jonah Jang called for a high-level stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja to address the persistent crisis, warning against the spread of violence from rural areas to urban centres.

Echoing similar sentiments, former Governor Simon Lalong emphasised that lasting peace would require collective commitment from the people of Plateau, noting that local stakeholders must take ownership of the solution.

Former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase, highlighted the need for stronger collaboration between security forces, particularly as the farming season approaches, warning that recent attacks underscore the urgency of sustained action.

The President’s visit comes amid renewed concerns over security in Plateau State, with authorities pledging decisive measures to restore stability and protect lives.