Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing the Ondo South Senatorial District, expressed confidence in the ability of President Bola Tinubu’s government to address the country’s security challenges through the use of technology. During a recent appearance on Channels TV, Ibrahim emphasized that the administration’s focus on advanced technological solutions, including artificial intelligence (AI), would help curb the escalating threat of banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism in Nigeria.
Ibrahim, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Inter-Parliamentary Affairs, pointed to the government’s significant commitment to national security, noting that a substantial ₦4.91 trillion has been allocated to defense and security in the 2025 federal budget proposal. This allocation, he explained, reflects the government’s determination to tackle security issues head-on and invest in innovative methods to ensure the safety of Nigerians.
In his interview on Wednesday, Senator Ibrahim outlined the government’s plans to introduce technological tools such as tracking apps designed to monitor and apprehend criminals, including bandits, kidnappers, and terrorists. “He will use AI to make life uncomfortable for them,” Ibrahim said, referring to President Tinubu’s strategy of leveraging artificial intelligence to combat criminal activities.
The senator further explained that this technological investment in security is not only aimed at enhancing peace but also at boosting Nigeria’s economic potential. “If he is able to do that with ₦5 trillion, it would lead to more revenue as we are able to produce more crude oil. This way you make more money,” Ibrahim added. He stressed that increased security would contribute to a more stable environment, which could ultimately result in greater oil production and economic growth for the country.
Ibrahim highlighted the long-term benefits of a secure nation, noting that a well-secured environment would lead to increased productivity and a more favorable business climate. He added that by investing heavily in security, the government can foster peace, thereby stimulating the economy. “If we spend ₦5 trillion on security, we would have more peace and produce more oil,” he said.
Despite facing opposition and skepticism from some quarters, Ibrahim confidently defended President Tinubu’s administration, asserting that the security situation in Nigeria has already shown signs of improvement. “Give it to President Tinubu, whether you like him or not. The security index has improved,” Ibrahim stated. He commended the efforts of the Nigerian military and police, saying, “I see a positive security index, meaning that the army and police have done an excellent job.”
The senator also pointed to the current absence of Boko Haram flags in any Nigerian city, local government, or state as a significant achievement in the fight against terrorism. “No city or local government or state is wearing Boko Haram flag as of today,” he said, adding that increasing the country’s security index would lead to more opportunities for economic growth. “If you increase your security index, you have the opportunity to produce more,” Ibrahim concluded.
