From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Yobe State Government has commended officers and soldiers of the 241 Recce Model Battalion for their professionalism and effective operations in sustaining security across the state.
The commendation was made by Brig.-Gen. Dahiru Abdussalam (rtd.), Special Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni on Security Matters, during the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at the Nguru Military Barracks.
Abdussalam, who served as the Senior General Officer Hosting (SGOH) at the event, lauded the battalion’s commitment to constitutional duties and its collaboration with other security agencies under the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI.
He noted that the synergy among the forces had ensured that all local government areas under the battalion’s jurisdiction remained free from Boko Haram terrorist activities.
The special adviser also commended the strangulation operations along the Kano–Nguru–Gashua Road, describing them as strategic in curbing criminal movements and enhancing public safety.
He further applauded the battalion’s sustained efforts in addressing farmer–herder clashes, cattle rustling, armed banditry, and other social vices within its area of responsibility.
According to him, the gallantry and courage displayed by the troops have contributed significantly to the improved security situation in Yobe State and its environs.
Earlier, in his opening remarks, the Commanding Officer of the 241 Recce Model Battalion, Col. A.T. Adeuti, welcomed officers, soldiers, families, and guests to the 2025 WASA celebration.
Adeuti described WASA as a historic Nigerian Army tradition that provides an opportunity for personnel and their families to unwind, foster unity, and celebrate their diverse cultural heritage.
He traced the origin of WASA to the era of the West African Frontier Force, when colonial authorities designated a day for West African troops to showcase their various cultures.
According to him, the tradition was retained after independence and adopted as a regimental activity of the Nigerian Army to promote cohesion and strengthen relationships with host communities.
He noted that under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, the Nigerian Army continues to support the conduct of WASA across formations despite ongoing operational engagements.
Adeuti, who assumed command of the battalion on June 5, 2025, said he had since undertaken deliberate measures to enhance operational effectiveness.
He explained that the battalion operates in support of 1 Division, Kaduna, is administered by 3 Brigade, Kano, and is operationally responsible to the 27 Task Force Brigade, Buni Gari, under Operation HADIN KAI.
The commanding officer said the battalion’s area of responsibility covers Karasuwa, Machina, Nguru, and Yusufari Local Government Areas of Yobe State.
He added that forward operating bases are maintained at Jajimaji, Machina, and Nguru, with frequent patrols conducted in Yusufari.
Adeuti emphasized that the battalion had sustained dominance in its area of responsibility, ensuring all four local government areas remained free from Boko Haram terrorist activities.
He also disclosed that surveillance operations along the Kano–Nguru–Gashua Road had led to the arrest of suspects, logistics suppliers, and collaborators, who were subsequently handed over to the Sector 2 Headquarters in Damaturu for further action.
The commanding officer noted that the battalion serves as the permanent Nigerian Army recruitment centre for Yobe State, having hosted the 89 and 90 Regular Recruit Intakes. He stated that while the 89 Intake completed training in November 2025, the 90 Intake is currently undergoing training.
He added that the battalion, being a model unit, conducts post-basic leadership and regimentation training for newly commissioned officers under Exercise Competent Officer.
Adeuti further highlighted that the unit had achieved remarkable improvements in training and infrastructure and had empowered 30 widows and barracks women under the Barracks Women Empowerment Scheme launched on December 4, 2025.
The event was graced by senior military officers, royal fathers, heads of sister security agencies, representatives of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), soldiers’ families, and members of the press.