By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed confidence that Nigeria will soon overcome its security challenges, particularly those affecting the northern region, as his administration intensifies efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.

The President gave the assurance on Saturday during the Third General Hassan Usman Katsina Memorial Conference held in Kaduna. He was represented at the event by his Special Adviser on Political and Other Matters, Ibrahim Masari.

Tinubu stated that his administration has implemented strategic measures aimed at dismantling criminal networks and tackling the various security threats confronting the nation. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while creating an environment conducive to economic growth and national development.

Paying tribute to the late General Hassan Usman Katsina, the President described him as an exemplary patriot whose legacy of discipline, humility and selfless service continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

He noted that the former military governor of the defunct Northern Region and later Chief of Army Staff played a significant role in strengthening national unity and promoting stability during some of Nigeria’s most challenging periods.

According to Tinubu, General Katsina’s contributions helped lay the foundation for the democratic values and freedoms currently enjoyed by Nigerians.

The President reiterated his administration’s determination to build on the sacrifices of past national leaders by ensuring a safer and more prosperous nation.

He said ongoing security operations and government interventions would soon yield lasting results, expressing optimism that insecurity in Northern Nigeria and other parts of the country would be significantly reduced.

Beyond security, Tinubu highlighted several initiatives undertaken by his administration in the areas of education, infrastructure, transportation and energy.

In the education sector, he disclosed that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has provided financial assistance to more than one million students, enabling greater access to higher education.

He also noted that the removal of tertiary institutions from the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) has enhanced institutional autonomy and contributed to improved industrial harmony in public universities.

The President further stated that the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund) has financed the construction of classrooms, laboratories, hostels and research facilities across the country, while government investments in teacher training, technical education and curriculum reforms are strengthening the sector.

He added that new federal universities and polytechnics have been established to expand educational opportunities for Nigerians.

On infrastructure development, Tinubu cited ongoing work on major road projects, including the Abuja–Kaduna–Zaria–Kano Expressway, the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway, the Sokoto–Zamfara–Kaduna Road and the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Road.

According to him, these projects are expected to improve connectivity, facilitate commerce and stimulate economic activities nationwide.

Addressing developments in the power sector, the President highlighted ongoing projects such as the Kaduna Power Station, the 40-megawatt Kumbotso High Voltage Power Project and the rehabilitation of the 215-megawatt Kaduna Power Plant.

He also revealed that the Federal Government is expanding renewable energy infrastructure through the deployment of more than 1,500 solar-powered streetlights and the establishment of 50 mini-grids in rural communities.

Tinubu announced that the College of Petroleum and Energy Studies in Kaduna has been upgraded to a full-fledged university named after General Hassan Usman Katsina. He disclosed that the institution is over 90 per cent completed and has already commenced academic activities.

The President further stated that work is progressing on the 1,350-megawatt Gwagwalada Independent Power Plant, which is expected to boost electricity supply across Northern Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory.

On transportation, he said construction of the Kaduna–Kano Rail Line and the Kano–Maradi Rail Project is advancing steadily, while funding has also been secured for the Kaduna and Kano light rail systems.

He added that the rehabilitation of the Abuja Metro Rail and improvements to the Abuja–Kaduna rail service are part of broader efforts to enhance the movement of passengers and goods across the country.

Tinubu maintained that the various projects being implemented by his administration demonstrate a firm commitment to addressing insecurity, expanding economic opportunities and accelerating national development.