Tinubu provides N50bn security fund for five Fulani, Hausa dominated states, Kaduna, Benue

By Samuel Ogunsona

The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the sum of N50billlion for seven states.

Five of the seven states are dominated by Fulan and Hausa ethnic groups.

The initiative is part of the efforts to build economic roadmap that would create jobs and dissuade young people from extremism. Many experts have hailed the project as creative.

The project is code named “Palaaku” which in Fulfude means “to be shy.”

The grant was announced during the two day roundatable on Insecurity in Northern Nigeria attended by major stakeholders from Northern Nigeria held on Thursday.

The event was organised by Coalition of Northern Groups.

The theme of the event was “Multi-Dimensional Approach to Tackling Insecurity in Northern Nigeria”

The Vice President Kashim Shettima was represented by his Chief of Staff, Ibrahim Hadeija.

This initiative aims to enhance living conditions and livelihoods in selected states, starting with Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Benue, Zamfara, Niger and Kaduna. The construction of residences, roads, schools and other essential facilities is set to commence, promising to catalyse the fortunes of this region,” the Vice President said.

The Alliance of Yoruba Democratic Movements, (AYDM) in a chat with Irohioodua praised President Tinubu for the project. The Secretary General, Mr Popoola Ajayi said the AYDM is already working on a similar summit in the South West.

The five Northern states to benefit from the N50b are Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Benue, Zamfara, Niger and Kaduna states.
The VP said the fund will “catalyse” the fortunes of the northern region.

He said “Every part of the country is equal to the rest, and the government treats the needs of each region as critical. For the North, we are also embarking on a transformative journey to address the root causes of the challenges. The Pulaaku Initiative, a non-kinetic solution, has received presidential approval, with an allocation of N50bn in the first instance.

The VP said “I believe the informed gathering here is aware of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s promise to the nation in his inaugural speech of ending insecurity and ending insecurity is a cardinal agenda of the government. As such we have never downplayed the foundational role of security in governance matters. This rationale led to allocating the largest share of this year’s budget to the security sector.

He said as the Government srives to to improve the quality of life and security for citizens, the Federal Government must also look beyond lamentations and focus on building solid defence systems and institutions, to prevent and redeem the identified lapses.

Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar called for a multi-dimensional approach to insecurity which should include education and economic initiatives.

He said “Additionally, investing in education and economic development can address the root causes, ultimately fostering long-term stability. Also, synergy among the security agencies, and state and federal authorities is key to effectively combating terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry. Together, we can work towards a safer and more stable northern Nigeria, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. This will have a ripple effect on other regions within the country; thereby transforming the security landscape for the greater good of the citizens of our dear nation”, he said.

Former Chairman of Independent Electoral Commission, (INEC) Commission, Prof Attahiru Jega called for integrity and transparency in fighting insecurity.