Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has directed troops of Joint Task Force North Central Operation Savannah Shield to intensify coordinated offensives against kidnappers, bandits and other armed criminal groups operating across parts of Kwara, Niger and neighbouring states in the North Central region.
The directive comes amid renewed security concerns in parts of North Central Nigeria, where communities in Kwara, Niger and Kogi states have witnessed rising cases of kidnappings, attacks on rural settlements and highway robberies in recent months, heightening fears among residents and travellers.
Appolonia Anele, Acting Director Army Public Relations, disclosed in a statement on Thursday that the Army Chief gave the charge during his maiden operational visit to the Headquarters of Joint Task Force North Central Operation Savannah Shield at Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Kwara State.
According to Anele, Lieutenant General Shaibu urged troops to sustain aggressive operations aimed at dismantling criminal hideouts and denying armed groups freedom of movement within the joint operations area.
The COAS reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, stressing that troops must maintain operational momentum to prevent criminal elements from infiltrating communities or undermining national security.
