The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to intensifying operations against banditry and other forms of criminality in Katsina State and across the country.
General Oluyede gave the assurance on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Acting Governor of Katsina State, Alhaji Faruk Lawal Jobe, at the Government House, Katsina. The visit followed recent banditry attacks in parts of the state, which claimed lives and destroyed property.
The Army Chief stressed that immediate and improved measures would be rolled out to prevent further attacks, while urging residents to continue cooperating with security agencies in the collective effort to secure the state and the wider Nigerian space.
In his response, Acting Governor Jobe commended the Nigerian Army for its dedication and timely interventions in mitigating security challenges in the state.
He pledged the state government’s sustained support to the military and other security agencies, noting Katsina’s ongoing investment in security infrastructure.
As part of his operational tour of Katsina under 8 Division/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, the COAS received a detailed briefing from Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, Commander of 17 Brigade, at Natsinta Barracks.
He also visited troops at Forward Operating Bases in Dutsinma, Safana, and Malumfashi, where he charged soldiers to intensify operations, deny bandits freedom of action, and rid the state of criminal elements.
General Oluyede assured troops of enhanced logistics and welfare support, commending their sacrifices and urging them to remain resolute in defending the state and the nation at large.