Tinubu in Katsina: Presidential Visit Signals Renewed Federal Attention to Northern Insecurity
By HeadlineNews.News Special Team.
May 2025
In a strategic move that underscores his administration’s commitment to grassroots engagement and national stability, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu paid an official visit to Katsina State this week. The visit, marked by high-level meetings with state officials, security chiefs, and traditional leaders, focused on addressing the persistent insecurity challenges facing the region, alongside interventions in agriculture, education, and infrastructure.
Katsina, the home state of former President Muhammadu Buhari, has remained a flashpoint of rural banditry, kidnappings, and insurgent attacks despite numerous security operations. In 2023 alone, over 2,300 people were killed and 1,600 abducted in the Northwest, according to figures from the Nigeria Security Tracker (NST). Katsina accounts for a significant portion of these cases, with several rural communities abandoned due to recurrent violence.
Presidential Intervention: Action Beyond Rhetoric
President Tinubu, who was received by Governor Dikko Radda and key stakeholders, emphasized that his administration was determined to “return peace to every inch of Nigerian soil.” He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s backing for the “Katsina Community Watch Corps” and promised expanded funding for the Nigerian Army’s Forward Operating Bases across the Northwest.
“The fight against terror is not just about boots on the ground—it’s about trust in leadership and hope in our shared future,” President Tinubu stated at the State House in Katsina.
The President also announced plans to expedite the rollout of the National Agricultural Growth and Security Scheme (NAGSS) in conflict-affected rural zones, noting that restoring agriculture is key to stabilizing the region economically and socially.
The National Patriots Commends Tinubu’s Direct Approach
Dr. G. Fraser, MFR, of the National Patriots who is a development expert and national commentator, praised the President’s decision to engage state crises directly:
“This visit is not symbolic—it is strategic. President Tinubu is showing what it means to be a progressive leader: one who doesn’t sit in Abuja theorizing about challenges, but moves across the federation to face them head-on. This is what true federal leadership looks like,” Dr. Fraser stated.
She noted that Tinubu’s grassroots engagement mirrors the legacy of Chief Obafemi Awolowo, who was known for field-based governance in the 1950s Western Region, bringing development directly to the people.
Historical Context: A Region in Search of Recovery
Katsina has long struggled with balancing its agricultural potential with rising insecurity. Historically a center for groundnut pyramids and cotton production during Nigeria’s First Republic, the state has seen its rural economy decimated by violence. From 2015 to 2023, over 72 secondary schools were shut temporarily due to student kidnappings, most infamously the Kankara abduction of 344 schoolboys in 2020.
Tinubu’s administration, through the Ministry of Police Affairs and the Defence Headquarters, has committed to constructing more Mobile Police Barracks in border communities and digitalizing rural surveillance systems, starting with Katsina and Zamfara States.
Looking Ahead: A Model for Regional Stabilization
The President’s visit is being hailed as a test case for renewed executive responsiveness. Analysts believe that regular state-level interventions, backed with policy and budget follow-through, could restore confidence in federal leadership and hasten recovery in conflict-torn zones.
The people of Katsina, especially displaced farmers, local vigilantes, and education stakeholders, are hopeful that this visit will not be another presidential courtesy call—but a turning point.
As Dr. Fraser aptly put it:
“Hope is not a policy, but when paired with presence, it becomes power. Tinubu’s presence in Katsina is a powerful signal that the North has not been forgotten.”
Headlinenews.news Special Report.
” Tinubu Storms Katsina: Presidential Push to End Insecurity Begins Now.” May Allah grant President Tinubu the wisdom, courage, energy and health to pursue this war against Insecurity successfuly. One must remember that Tinubu never starts what he can’t finish. He has been in battle to become the candidate of APC, to win the elections and remain in power to carry out his reforms successfully. This man is a doer. I believe the days of Insecurity in Northern Nigeria is numbered. Tinubu has stepped in. What a leader! Insecurity is responsible for the inflation and high cost of food stuff in Nigeria. Tinubu is set to address the people’s needs indirectly and directly. This is commendable. I respect his style. – Elder Statesman.
” From Abuja to the Battlefield: Tinubu Takes Hope to Troubled Katsina” A surprise visit. Tinubu is moving like a General. He is definitely a tactician and strategist. It is obvious the President is leading the battle against Insecurity to save the North. We must support and cooperate with the FG in every way. – Princess Gloria Fraser MFR. The National Patriots.
” North Not Forgotten: Tinubu’s Visit to Katsina Sparks New Optimism” Renewed Hope is being actualized now in the North. We are seeing signs that Mr. President appreciates us in the North. – Dr. Imran , Activist.
” Federal Power Meets Rural Pain: Tinubu Steps In to Rescue Katsina”. Tinubu is a man of action and man of his words, fully committed to addressing Nigeria’s hydraheaded problems. It’s a big challenge and he has confirmed his goodwill to fulfill his electoral promises. I think he should be given a chance. -Prof. Adamu Bello.
“Tinubu on the Frontlines: Renewed Commitment to Security and Recovery”. This strategic move shows a President who knows his onions. I am delighted with this move. Mr. President should keep this up to other states. – Former Governor.
” A President Among the People: Tinubu’s Bold Move in Katsina Crisis Commendable” President Tinubu continues to surprise Nigerians with his leadership style and is set to prove he is a friend of the North and would do all possible to address their grievances. I am glad he made this move. Former Senator from Northern state.
“Katsina at the Center: Tinubu’s Visit Marks Turning Point in Security War” This is an impressive development and an informative article. It has helped to reposition the President’s intention and correct the perception Nigerians have of the administration. I agree with Dr. Fraser. – Anonymous, Government House, Katsina.