The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has pledged to step up military operations in Katsina State and across Nigeria, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to restoring peace and stability.
The assurance came during a visit to the Acting Governor of Katsina State, Faruk Lawal Jobe, at the Government House in Katsina.
The visit, according to Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, was to commiserate with the state following recent banditry attacks.
“We will step up operations to improve security in Katsina State and the entire Nigerian space,” Lieutenant General Oluyede declared, appealing to residents to support security agencies in the collective fight against banditry.
In response, Acting Governor Jobe expressed gratitude for the Army Chief’s visit and assured continued state support.
The COAS’ visit was part of his operational tour under 8 Division/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA. At Natsinta Barracks, he was briefed by the Commander of 17 Brigade, Brigadier General BO Omopariola, on operational activities and challenges.
Oluyede commended the Brigade and promised enhanced logistics to boost efficiency.
Continuing his tour, the Army Chief engaged with troops at Forward Operating Bases in Dutsinma, Safana, and Malumfashi. He urged them to intensify operations, deny bandits freedom of action, and secure their areas of responsibility.
“Go all out to clear bandits and rid the state of criminality,” he ordered, assuring troops of improved welfare and logistical support.
The symbolic visit underlined the Nigerian Army’s unwavering resolve to reinforce national security, signalling that combating banditry remains a top priority for the country’s military leadership.
PIAK