President promises security overhaul, 5,000 cameras for Plateau

President Bola Tinubu has consoled residents and families affected by Sunday’s deadly attack in Jos, Plateau State, which left at least 28 people dead and 22 others injured, assuring them that such violence would not recur.

During a visit to Jos on Thursday, Tinubu met government officials, traditional leaders and bereaved families, offering condolences and pledging decisive action.

“To the victims, there is nothing I can give you, whether in billions of naira, but I can console you and promise that this experience will not repeat itself,” he said.

Addressing a woman seen in a viral video cradling her dead son after the attack, the president acknowledged her grief. “I know your pain; I saw in the video how you held on to your son and felt the agony in your heart. Only God can give you joy and comfort. No amount of money can compensate for your loss. As a government, we will do our best to support and comfort you.”

Tinubu said restoring Jos to its former reputation as a peaceful city remained central to his administration’s response. “I don’t want to be here merely commiserating and consoling. I want to be here to establish peace,” he added.

The president urged security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible. “You must go out and find the killers—not merely to console and create widows and widowers,” he said, commending the armed forces for their work so far.

As part of measures to strengthen security, Tinubu announced plans for the installation of more than 5,000 surveillance cameras across the city, to be overseen by the Minister of Communications, Bosun Tijani.

Also speaking, Plateau state governor Caleb Mutfwang described the attack as a “temporary setback”, expressing confidence that the state would overcome its security challenges.

“This incident of last Sunday is a temporary setback. I am persuaded that, by the grace of God, we will overcome that setback and continue on our trajectory to peace, tourism, and stability,” he said.

Mutfwang commended security agencies, noting that while breaches attract attention, many threats are successfully prevented without public notice. He added that with sustained support from security forces, the state would prevail.