By Muhammad Mamman
A senior aide to President Bola Tinubu has revealed why security agencies are struggling to trace and dismantle bandit networks across the country, citing major technological and logistical constraints that continue to hamper counter-terrorism efforts.
Speaking during an interview shared by Politics Nigeria, the presidential aide explained that contrary to public belief, many of the criminal groups operate using methods specifically designed to evade modern surveillance systems. According to him, bandits often rely on unregistered SIM cards, move frequently across difficult terrains, and use communication tools that are deliberately chosen to avoid detection.
He noted that bandit groups exploit Nigeria’s vast ungoverned spaces, coupled with decades-long underinvestment in advanced tracking infrastructure. “People assume it’s just a matter of switching on a device and locating them. It’s far more complicated,” he said, emphasising that the nation requires a significant upgrade of intelligence-gathering capabilities to match the evolving tactics of non-state armed actors.
The aide also highlighted gaps in inter-agency collaboration, stressing that seamless coordination between the military, intelligence units, and local authorities is essential for effective tracking and swift response operations.
While assuring Nigerians that ongoing reforms in the security architecture will strengthen surveillance and counter-banditry operations, he acknowledged that the government must accelerate the deployment of modern technologies and improve data management systems nationwide.
He reiterated the administration’s commitment to restoring peace, urging citizens to remain patient as the government intensifies efforts to close long-standing security loopholes.
The revelation has sparked fresh debate on the adequacy of Nigeria’s security tools, with experts calling for urgent investment in cutting-edge digital tracking solutions and stronger regulatory oversight of telecom operators.
