By ifeoma Onyekachi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced that the Federal Government will deploy an artificial intelligence-powered network of more than 5,000 digital surveillance cameras across Plateau State to support security agencies in tackling insecurity.

The President made the announcement on Thursday during his visit to Jos, where he commiserated with the government and people of Plateau State over the March 29 attacks in Angwan Rukuba, Jos North Local Government Area, which left several residents dead.

Tinubu assured residents that the Federal Government would take decisive steps to prevent a recurrence of such violence.

“I promise you that this experience will not repeat itself,” the President said.

He directed the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Army Staff, and the Inspector-General of Police to intensify efforts to track down those responsible for the killings and ensure they are brought to justice.

The President also announced that the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, will supervise the immediate installation of the surveillance camera network in collaboration with the Plateau State Government and security agencies. The project will begin in Jos and later expand to other parts of the state, building on similar security surveillance systems already deployed in Lagos and Enugu states.

Expressing sadness over the killings, Tinubu said he was deeply disturbed by videos showing the violence in Jos, noting that no compensation could replace lost lives.

“It is only God that can give you joy and comfort. No amount of money can recompense for lost souls,” he told affected families at a meeting held at the arrival lounge of Yakubu Gowon Airport in Jos.

The President also directed the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs to compile comprehensive data on victims and affected families to ensure fair and equitable distribution of government assistance.

Speaking during the meeting, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, described the attack as a temporary setback, noting that the state had enjoyed relative peace before the incident. He commended security agencies for their response and expressed confidence that ongoing measures would improve security in the state.

Mutfwang also thanked the President for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen local security operations.

Meanwhile, the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Nentawe Yilwatda, appreciated the President for visiting Plateau State and standing in solidarity with the people, expressing hope that the visit would boost security operations and bring comfort to affected families.

Former Plateau State Governor, Jonah David Jang, also called for a special stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja to discuss lasting solutions to the recurring security challenges in the state.