In a historic move to bolster security in the South-West region of Nigeria, governors from the six states in the area have announced the formation of a Joint Security Task Force aimed at combating the growing threats posed by ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) and Boko Haram.
This collaborative initiative is in response to the escalating violence attributed to insurgent groups operating in parts of Nigeria, particularly the recent incursions in neighboring regions. The governors are concerned about the increasing reach of these militant groups, which have caused widespread instability, loss of life, and disruption of daily activities.
The newly-formed task force will operate across South-West states, focusing on improving intelligence-sharing, resource allocation, and coordinated military operations. The governors have committed to providing enhanced logistical support to security agencies and ensuring seamless communication between state and federal security forces.
Governor Olumide Adebayo of Lagos, speaking at a press conference, emphasized the urgency of the joint initiative. "The safety and security of our citizens is paramount. We will no longer tolerate the threat posed by these extremist groups. It is time to act collectively and decisively."
The South-West governors have also called for more support from the federal government, stressing the importance of addressing the root causes of terrorism, including poverty, unemployment, and lack of education, while also implementing stricter counter-terrorism measures.
The new task force will deploy a variety of strategies, including strengthening border security, conducting joint operations in identified hotspots, and working with local communities to gather intelligence and prevent insurgent activities. The governors also committed to enhancing the welfare and training of security personnel to ensure the force remains effective.