Insecurity: Defence minister proposes technology-driven tollgates on major highways

General Christopher Musa, the former Minister of Defence, has suggested reintroducing tollgates on key highways in Nigeria, backed by advanced technology. According to Musa, modernized toll systems would serve as valuable tools for surveillance and countering criminal activities. He argued that these automated systems would allow security forces to gather crucial information such as vehicle registration details, monitor traffic flow along major routes, and identify suspects without depending on cash-based transactions.

In a media statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Leah Katung-Babatunde, Musa lamented the removal and demolition of tollgates across Nigeria, deeming it a security setback. During a discussion at the Abuja Round Table, titled "Promise to Proof: The Renewed Hope Conversation," Musa addressed various strategies to enhance safety and security for communities involved in farming, travel, and commerce.

He highlighted that, despite past misuse, the implementation of automated toll collection systems could overcome these issues and fortify their role in preventing crime. Musa also proposed enhancing the national identification framework by incorporating biometric data and unique identification numbers, which would improve identification verification processes and bolster intelligence gathering.

He emphasized the importance of a centralized digital database to help security agencies accurately identify individuals and fill gaps in existing records. Regarding the military's involvement in domestic security, Musa clarified that the primary responsibility of the Armed Forces is to protect the nation's territorial integrity.

However, he acknowledged that the military could assist the police in managing overwhelming security threats. He raised concerns about the extended deployment of soldiers, noting that many personnel have been away from their families for years due to prolonged assignments in regions like the North-west. Musa stated that steps are being taken to bolster police recruitment, training, and operational capabilities to enable the force to assume a more significant role in domestic security.

He added that strengthening the police would allow the military to gradually withdraw from internal security duties and return to its core responsibility of safeguarding the country. Lastly, Musa cited national disunity as a significant challenge in combating insecurity, arguing that Nigeria's problems extend beyond military equipment availability and financial resources.