A young innovator from Sokoto State, Haruna Abubakar Jibril, has developed a digital security system called the "Smart Border and Toll Gate Security System" designed to monitor border areas and deploy drones to intercept smugglers transporting weapons into Nigeria. The system also includes devices to prevent road accidents by alerting or stopping drivers who speed or use phones while driving.
Innovator's Motivation and System Capabilities
Speaking in an interview with Legit Hausa on Saturday, September 12, 2026, Jibril explained that his long-standing passion for using technology to solve social problems, especially insecurity, led him to design the system. The technology aims to tighten surveillance at state and international borders, addressing the challenge of Nigeria's porous borders.
"I am interested in innovation and the use of technology to address security challenges. I have now developed a system aimed at using technology to improve security along state and national borders," he said.
"There are also some drones and robots that I want to develop to help prevent terrorists from bringing dangerous weapons through forests and our airspace. There is also another device that would help us prevent road accidents by directly alerting or stopping a driver when they are speeding or using their phone while driving," Jibril added.
Appeal for Government Support and Collaboration
Jibril disclosed that he has not received any form of support from the government or any agency so far. He expressed hope that authorities and stakeholders would recognise the value of his innovation and partner with him to develop it further.
He urged the government to prioritise the use of technology in data gathering, surveillance, and intelligence-sharing among security agencies. He also called for greater opportunities for young innovators with ideas that could help address the country's challenges.
"My appeal to the authorities is to give young innovators more opportunities. There are young people with ideas and technologies that can help address some of the challenges we face," he said.
Call for Public Cooperation in Security Efforts
Jibril also appealed to the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information and avoiding actions that could worsen the security situation. He stressed that tackling insecurity is a shared responsibility requiring government, security operatives, youths, and the wider public to work together, alongside education, technology, and good governance.
"In my view, security is not the responsibility of the government alone. It is everyone's responsibility. If the government, security agencies, young people and other members of the public work together, alongside education, technology and good leadership, we can make significant progress in addressing insecurity," he stated.
The development comes amid concerns about extremist groups in the Sokoto axis. Reports highlight Lakurawa, a group recruiting youths with financial incentives of up to ₦1 million, believed to include members from several West African countries. The group has reportedly expelled local bandits and seized cattle while establishing control in some areas without direct violent incidents, raising concern among residents and security agencies about a wider extremist threat in north-western Nigeria.
