From Joseph Adahnu, Yola
The Adamawa State Government, has called on the Federal Government, to deploy modern surveillance technology, including drones, and intensify joint border patrols to curb arms proliferation, illegal migration and smuggling along Nigeria’s border with Cameroon.
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Kaletapwa Farauta George, made the call at the opening of the Federal and States Security Administrators’ Meeting (FSSAM) in Yola.
He said Adamawa’s extensive international border exposes the state and the country to cross-border security threats that require urgent federal intervention and coordinated operations.
The Governor called for increased operational funding, modern equipment and improved welfare for security personnel, warning that poor intelligence sharing and inter-agency rivalry could weaken the fight against insurgency and organised crime.
He identified Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as continuing threats despite military gains, alongside emerging challenges of cybercrime, digital radicalization and attacks on critical infrastructure.
Governor Fintiri noted that his administration’s creation of seven new emirates and chiefdoms has strengthened grassroots intelligence gathering and improved conflict resolution.
He added that the state government has provided operational vehicles and communication equipment and supported joint security operations, including Operation Farauta, to tackle rural banditry, farmer-herder clashes and communal violence.
He urged security administrators to develop an actionable national security roadmap that combines military operations with rural infrastructure, education and youth empowerment.
He also advocated for digital tracking systems for freight corridors and stronger collaboration among security agencies, traditional rulers and recognized local vigilante groups.
In his remarks, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, who was represented by Asishana Okauru, commended the Fintiri administration for its efforts to improve security and development in Adamawa.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Forum of State Security Administrators, Sani Aminu, urged security agencies to respect their respective mandates and remain professional as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.
He warned political actors against hate speech, misinformation and inflammatory campaigns capable of triggering violence, and urged issue-based campaigns and respect for electoral rules to ensure peaceful and credible elections.
At the event, the state government flagged off the distribution of 300 motorcycles and Hilux vehicles to local government areas to strengthen security operations.

