Over 35 Aircraft Procured, 13,500 Terrorists Eliminated Under Tinubu – FG

The Federal Government on Wednesday disclosed that more than 35 aircraft have been acquired and over 13,500 terrorists neutralised since President Bola Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, as part of sweeping efforts to curb Nigeria’s escalating insecurity.

This was made known by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, during an interview on Politics Today, a Channels Television programme.

Responding to concerns over the government’s capacity to handle the worsening security crisis, Idris said the challenges predate the Tinubu administration but are being tackled with “unprecedented resolve.”

Idris said, “This has been happening for decades. The government has a great responsibility to ensure that people’s lives and property are protected — that’s the first role of government. President Tinubu recognises that, and that’s why he feels the pain.”

Naija News reports that the Minister reeled out figures to highlight the government’s commitment to strengthening security across the country.

“Over 35 helicopters and airplanes have been procured, about four naval vessels, and large quantities of ammunition to fight criminal elements,” he disclosed.

Idris also revealed that over 13,500 terrorists have been eliminated, 120,000 fighters have surrendered, and 17,000 displaced persons have been reunited with their families as part of recent military operations.

Insisting that the president is not out of touch, the minister said Tinubu is actively engaged and determined to restore order.

He said, “President Tinubu is not the kind of president who does not see what happens around him. He sees, he knows, and discusses with all of us — his ministers and key advisers.

“I can assure you that President Bola Tinubu is going to fix this.”

Addressing the president’s recent visit to Benue State following the Yelwata massacre that claimed over 59 lives, Idris described the move as “unprecedented.”

“The President didn’t just visit. He went to the hospital, spoke to the injured, and held a town hall meeting. That tells you how deeply he feels about this,” he noted.