SOLOMON ETUK'S BLOG

Security Approaches Across the North-East

This is a comparative look at how Adamawa’s security initiatives under Governor Fintiri stack up against other North-East states in 2025. Each state has adopted distinct strategies, reflecting both local challenges and regional priorities.

Adamawa State

Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has prioritized logistics and mobility support, handing over Nigerian-made Hilux patrol vehicles to security agencies. His approach emphasizes rapid response, operational efficiency, and investor confidence. By strengthening collaboration with operatives, Adamawa has enjoyed improved peace and economic attractiveness..

Borno State

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has focused on a community-driven security framework. At the North-East Security Summit, Borno officials stressed the importance of intelligence-led, community-based interventions to counter evolving threats. Despite military gains, insurgent attacks by ISWAP seeminglyremain frequent, underscoring the need for grassroots vigilance and regional coordination.

Yobe State

Governor Mai Mala Buni expanded Operation Haba Maza, a joint security outfit involving multiple agencies. This initiative now covers major towns like Potiskum, Geidam, Nguru, and Gashua. The expansion reflects Yobe’s strategy of broadening coverage and integrating agencies to sustain peace and stability.

Taraba State

Governor Agbu Kefas has leaned into multi-agency training and collaboration. The Nigerian Army launched a two-week program in Jalingo to equip operatives with skills in weapon handling, first aid, and vehicle maintenance. Kefas emphasized that no single agency can tackle threats alone, highlighting the importance of shared intelligence and synergy.

Gombe State

Governor Inuwa Yahaya introduced the Gombe State Security, Traffic, and Environmental Commission (GOSTEC). This unified agency addresses internal security, traffic management, and environmental protection. Gombe also adopted far-reaching measures such as sanctioning negligent traditional leaders and intensifying anti-drug campaigns. The state is leveraging ICT-driven surveillance and emergency response systems to modernize its security architecture.

Bauchi State

Governor Bala Mohammed has taken a digital-first approach, launching initiatives in digital literacy and cybersecurity. Bauchi plans to train 100,000 citizens in digital skills and 500 cybersecurity experts by 2027. Alongside traditional security spending, this reflects a belief that cybersecurity and digital empowerment are integral to modern security frameworks.

Comparative Insights

• Adamawa: Focus on logistics and investor confidence.
• Borno: Community-driven vigilance against insurgency.
• Yobe: Expansion of joint security outfits.
• Taraba: Multi-agency training and collaboration.
• Gombe: Institutional reforms with ICT-driven security.
• Bauchi: Digital literacy and cybersecurity as security pillars.

However, Adamawa’s approach stands out for its emphasis on mobility and economic stability, while other states highlight community engagement, inter-agency collaboration, institutional reforms, and digital modernization. 

Together, these strategies reflect a diverse but complementary regional response to insecurity in Nigeria’s North-East.