Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has directed troops to step up operations against bandits and criminal elements across Nigeria’s North West.
The directive was given during an operational visit to troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Gusau, where the Defence Chief assessed ongoing efforts to restore peace in the region.
Addressing officers and men of the Joint Task Force, General Oluyede praised their courage and resilience, urging them to remain focused and relentless in the fight against insecurity.
He emphasized that the safety of Nigerians must remain the top priority, calling on troops to sustain pressure on criminal groups until they are completely neutralized.
The Defence Chief also assured personnel of continued support, including improved welfare, enhanced training, and the provision of modern operational equipment to boost effectiveness on the field.
He highlighted the critical role of air power in ongoing operations, noting that steps are being taken to strengthen coordination and deploy additional platforms across theatres of operation.
During the visit, General Oluyede paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, commending his administration for supporting military operations. He also called for sustained collaboration with residents, particularly in providing timely and credible intelligence.
Governor Lawal, in his remarks, applauded the Armed Forces for their sacrifices and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting efforts to restore lasting peace in the region.
The visit featured operational briefings, troop interactions, and an assessment of deployments, as the military intensifies its campaign to tackle banditry and insecurity in the North West.