Defence Minister commends Gov Lawal for providing armoured vehicles, surveillance drones to troops

Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (retd.), has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for procuring armoured personnel carriers, surveillance drones, and operational equipment for troops in Zamfara State.

On Wednesday, the governor distributed armoured vehicles and other operational equipment to troops at a ceremony held at the Government House, Gusau.

According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the 25 highly sophisticated Armoured Personnel Carriers being will enhance troops protection during deployments into high-risk areas across Zamfara.

The statement also noted that other equipment purchased by the Zamfara State Government includes an 80-meter endurance surveillance drone capable of covering 50 kilometres and operating continuously for eight hours.

Delivering his remarks at the launch, Governor Lawal said the Defence Minister’s presence at the unveiling not only reinforces the depth of federal and Zamfara State synergy but also reflects a united front and collective resolve to establish and defend lawful authority.

He said, “For years, Zamfara State faced a security crisis disrupting life. Rural areas experienced instability, farmers faced uncertainty, and movement along key roads was cautious. Markets underperformed, affecting productivity, income, and confidence. These were widespread issues impacting daily life and the economy.

“Under our Rescue Mission, we moved from fragmented responses to structured reform. The Zamfara State Security Trust Fund provided a predictable framework for logistical support to security forces. We strengthened collaboration with the Armed Forces, police, and other agencies through regular coordination. We implemented the Community Protection Guards in accordance with the law to enhance grassroots intelligence and early-warning capacity.

“These measures were designed to ensure that security intervention is supported by financing discipline, legal clarity, operational coordination and logistics facilitation. As an administration, we spare no expense to ensure the logistical support our security agencies on the ground receive.

“When we operationalised the Homegrown Community Protection Guards, we provided them with 60 Brand New and well-equipped Hilux operational vehicles and motorcycles to ensure adequate coverage, swift response and effective first responder services.

“The state government distributed 150 new Hilux vehicles to security forces, including the Nigeria Police, Department of Security Services, NSCDC, and others. Additionally, 20 Toyota Buffaloes were procured—10 armoured, and 10 soft-body. Over 600 specialised motorcycles have been provided for rapid response in tough terrain. These efforts have significantly contributed to recent successes.

“Beyond ground mobility, the integration of unmanned aerial systems expands reconnaissance reach. This is why we are also providing the drones. Aerial surveillance improves situational awareness, assists terrain assessment, and supports more precise coordination between command centres and field units. Real-time information strengthens decision-making and reduces operational blind spots.

“To the military commanders present today, these assets represent structured public investment and collective trust. Deployment must be intelligence-guided and strategically prioritised. Maintenance schedules must be strictly observed. Operational discipline must remain uncompromising. Long-term effectiveness depends on professional stewardship.

“To our officers and soldiers facing tough conditions, we honour your sacrifice and support your families. The government’s role goes beyond mere praise; it must provide the necessary protective and operational tools to enable you to perform effectively. Improving your safety also safeguards our communities.

Earlier, the Minister of Defence said the procurement of the armoured vehicles by the Zamfara state government demonstrates the governor’s commitment.

“From what I have seen, if we continue like this in the second term, Zamfara will look like Dubai.

“The protection of lives and properties rises above party lines, political affiliations and differences, and that is why I am particularly very happy to be here. That you have been a state executive who has done it for everyone, you are very distinct and very determined in what you are doing.

“It takes courage and firm conviction for subnational leadership to commit substantial resources towards strengthening public safety, and the best thing about this is that everything has been paid for. This sends a strong message to criminals.”

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