Sokoto donates 62 armoured vehicles, 320 motorcycles as Defence Minister Calls for Stronger Offensive Against Terrorists (Photos)

The Sokoto State Government has handed over 62 armoured operational vehicles, 320 motorcycles and other tactical equipment worth more than ₦27.1 billion to security agencies in a major effort to strengthen the fight against banditry, terrorism and kidnapping across the state.

The security assets were officially commissioned on Wednesday by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), during a ceremony in Sokoto attended by top military officers, government officials, traditional rulers and other stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, Musa expressed optimism that Nigeria would overcome its current security challenges through sustained collaboration between the Federal Government, state governments, security agencies and local communities. He stressed that public support and credible intelligence remain critical to defeating criminal groups operating in different parts of the country.

The Defence Minister also urged security personnel to act decisively against terrorists and bandits during operations while maintaining professionalism and protecting innocent civilians. He warned that the newly acquired equipment, funded with public resources, must be properly maintained to ensure long-term effectiveness.

Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the latest procurement forms part of his administration’s broader security strategy aimed at improving the mobility and operational capacity of security agencies across identified flashpoints in Sokoto State.

According to the governor, the package includes bulletproof operational vehicles, Buffalo Armoured Personnel Carriers, 320 motorcycles, 3,200 security gadgets, 2,000 bulletproof helmets and protective vests, 200 night-vision goggles, thermal devices and other tactical equipment valued at about ₦27.127 billion.

Aliyu disclosed that his administration has invested more than ₦36 billion in security since assuming office, including the construction of military and police barracks, support for the Nigerian Air Force Base, operational vehicles, motorcycles and the establishment of the Sokoto State Community Guard Corps. He also announced plans for a Command and Control Centre to improve surveillance and coordination of security operations statewide.

The governor further revealed that a bill before the Sokoto State House of Assembly seeks tougher sanctions against individuals who provide information or assistance to bandits. He expressed confidence that the proposed legislation would strengthen efforts to dismantle criminal networks operating in the state.

Aliyu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Armed Forces and other security agencies for their continued support in addressing insecurity, reaffirming that security remains a central pillar of his administration’s development agenda.

Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, the Wazirin Sokoto, Sambo Wali Junaidu, praised the state government’s sustained investment in security, describing the intervention as a significant step towards safeguarding lives and property and improving public safety across the state.