Governors across Nigeria’s North-West region have formally transitioned to a "zero-tolerance" security policy, collectively rejecting future negotiations with bandits. Speaking in Katsina State, Sokoto Governor Ahmed Aliyu declared that the era of dialogue with criminal elements is over, stating that the only path to peace is the total and unconditional surrender of armed groups operating within the region.
Governor Aliyu made these remarks during the inauguration of the ₦12.6 billion Yandaki–Shinkafi–Kofar Sauri road project. He emphasised that the regional leadership is now united in a singular strategy to confront insecurity through force and community-led intelligence. The governor asserted that state governments are committing substantial financial resources to refine their combat strategies and restore stability to the embattled region.
"We will not negotiate with any criminal, nor will we accept any offer from them unless they surrender unconditionally," Aliyu stated during the event. This declaration marks a significant departure from previous years, where some regional leaders attempted peace deals and amnesty programmes to curb the violence that has displaced thousands and crippled the local economy.
The Sokoto Governor lauded his counterpart, Katsina Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, for his proactive leadership in establishing the Katsina State Community Guard. This local security outfit was designed to complement the efforts of the Nigerian Police and Armed Forces. Aliyu noted that the success of the Katsina model prompted him to establish the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps immediately upon his return from a previous visit to the state.
Beyond kinetic military action, the governors are focusing on the internal structures that allow banditry to thrive. Governor Aliyu specifically called on residents to assist security agencies by identifying and exposing informants within their own communities. He stressed that many successful attacks are facilitated by insider collaboration, urging citizens to remain vigilant and monitor the movements of suspicious individuals.
The shift toward a unified regional defense comes as North-West governors face increasing pressure to secure rural farming communities and major transit routes. By prioritising infrastructure like the 8.1-kilometre road in Katsina, officials hope to improve the mobility of security forces while simultaneously revitalising the local economy. Aliyu concluded by urging the public to support ongoing operations through prayer and active participation in community safety initiatives.