Insecurity: Tinubu Deploys 24-Hour Air Surveillance Over Kwara, Kebbi and Niger Forests

President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday ordered comprehensive air security surveillance over forests in Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger State following a surge in kidnappings and terrorist activities.

The directive was disclosed by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, in a post on his verified X handle.

Dare said the President has instructed the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to intensify aerial monitoring across the deepest stretches of the forests, where criminals are believed to be hiding.

“The operation will be conducted round the clock, with air assets maintaining constant communication and coordination with ground troops,” Dare explained.

He added that the directive also applies to the Kebbi and Niger State axes, where joint operations are expected to facilitate the rescue of kidnapped victims. Communities in the affected regions have also been urged to provide timely intelligence on suspicious movements to aid security forces in restoring safety.

A wave of brazen kidnappings and violent raids across Kwara, Kebbi, and Niger States has highlighted the alarming reach of criminal networks exploiting remote forests and ungoverned terrain.

Tinubu’s directive for 24-hour aerial surveillance and ground coordination is aimed at dismantling these networks, rescuing hostages, and restoring confidence in vulnerable communities.

Dare stated, “President Tinubu has ordered total security cordon over the forests in Kwara State following recent kidnappings and terrorist activities.

“President Tinubu directed the Air Force to expand its air surveillance across the innermost parts of the forests in Kwara State where it is believed the terrorists are hiding.

“They are to maintain a 24-hour surveillance and link up with the boots on the ground. This order equally applies to the Kebbi and Niger States axis where many are expected to be rescued.

“Communities are also urged to provide timely information about strange movements and activities to aid the work of the security forces,” he said.