By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Governor Dauda Lawal on Wednesday distributed 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers and surveillance drones to security forces in Gusau, Zamfara State. The equipment was procured to strengthen operations against banditry and violent crime. The handover ceremony took place at the Government House. The initiative aims to improve troop protection, intelligence gathering, and rapid response across high-risk areas.
Defence Minister Commends Initiative
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Christopher Musa, praised the governor for the bold investment in security assets.
He said the procurement reflects structured public investment and collective trust. According to him, commanders must ensure intelligence-led deployment and strict maintenance culture.
“These assets must be strategically prioritised,” he said. “Operational discipline must remain uncompromising.”
He added that long-term effectiveness depends on professional stewardship and accountability.
Strengthening Ground Operations
Governor Lawal said Zamfara faced years of severe security challenges. Rural communities suffered instability, while farmers struggled with uncertainty. Movement along major roads became risky, and markets underperformed.
However, he noted that his administration introduced structured reforms under its Rescue Mission agenda.
First, the state established the Zamfara State Security Trust Fund. The fund now provides predictable logistical support for security agencies.
Second, the government strengthened coordination with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies. Regular strategy meetings improved intelligence sharing and operational planning.
Deployment of Vehicles and Tactical Assets
To enhance mobility, the state government distributed 150 new Hilux vehicles to security agencies. Beneficiaries include the Nigeria Police, DSS, and NSCDC.
Additionally, the administration procured 20 Toyota Buffalo vehicles. Ten are fully armoured, while 10 are soft-body units.
The governor also supplied over 600 specialised motorcycles. These motorcycles improve rapid response in difficult terrain.
When the Homegrown Community Protection Guards launched, the state provided 60 new Hilux vehicles and motorcycles. This support ensures swift first response and wider rural coverage.
Integration of Surveillance Drones
Beyond ground mobility, the Zamfara security equipment procurement includes unmanned aerial systems.
The state acquired an endurance surveillance drone with an 80-meter operational capability. It covers up to 50 kilometres and operates continuously for eight hours.
According to the governor, aerial surveillance expands reconnaissance reach. It also improves terrain assessment and strengthens coordination between command centres and field units.
Real-time intelligence, he explained, reduces operational blind spots and enhances decision-making.
Boosting Troop Protection in High-Risk Areas
Governor Lawal’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Idris, said the 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers will improve troop safety during deployments.
He stressed that the APCs will support operations in volatile communities across Zamfara State.
The Zamfara security equipment procurement, therefore, marks a major step in the state’s security reform strategy. Officials believe the combined investment in vehicles, drones, and logistics will sustain recent operational gains and restore confidence in affected communities.
