The Presidency has intensified actions to address security concerns in parts of Kwara State, as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagement (North Central), Dr. Abiodun Essiet, led strategic engagements with local government authorities and top military commanders at the conclusion of her three-day official visit to the state.
Discussions centred on evolving security realities in the affected communities, ongoing military operations, and the imperative of sustained cooperation between the armed forces and local populations.
Accordingto Dr.. Essiet, the engagements are expected to reinforce coordinated security responses, restore public confidence, and enable communities impacted by insecurity to safely resume normal social and economic activities.
During the meeting, she presented feedback from the recent physical session of the Citizens’ Assembly held in Omu-Aran, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara South Senatorial District, outlining the concerns, fears, and expectations expressed by residents.
As part of her engagements, Dr. Essiet received the Executive Chairman of Edu Local Government Area and the Councillor representing Gbugbu ward during a courtesy visit prompted by recent security concerns in Gbugbu town and neighbouring communities in Edu and Patigi LGAs.
The local government representatives briefed her on the prevailing security situation and appealed for stronger collaboration between community leaders, security agencies, and relevant authorities to restore peace and stability in the affected areas.
Subsequently, tye Presidential aide led a delegation to the headquarters of the 22 Armoured Brigade, host of the newly established Theatre Command, Operation Savannah Shield, a joint military operation designed to curb rising incidents of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping in Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.
The delegation engaged extensively with the Theatre Commander, Major General Yakub Yahaya, and the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General N. N. Rume.