By Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed troops to sustain the onslaught against terrorists in the North West and apply ingenuity in military operations to defeat insurgency in the region.
General Oluyede gave the charge on Thursday, February 20, during his operational visit to the Theatre Command of Operation Fansan Yamma and the Headquarters of 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Gusau, Zamfara State.
After receiving a detailed briefing from Major General Oluyinka Soyele, the Theatre Commander of Operation Fansan Yamma, and Brigadier General Timothy Opurum, the Commander of 1 Brigade, the Army Chief praised the bravery and dedication of troops in the fight against terrorism.
He acknowledged the significant successes recorded, particularly in neutralizing several high-profile terrorist kingpins, including those affiliated with the Lakurawa group. He noted that due to the sustained military offensive, many of these insurgents have been decimated and are currently on the run.
“The Nigerian Army, in synergy with sister services and other security agencies, has continued to apply pressure on terrorist elements. Your commitment and sacrifices are making a remarkable difference in safeguarding Nigeria’s defence and security,” General Oluyede stated.
The COAS also commended the Nigerian public for their continued support in the fight against terrorism, stressing that military operations cannot succeed without the cooperation of the civil populace.
He urged communities to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies, emphasizing that collaboration between civilians and the military enhances operational effectiveness.
Addressing troops at the 1 Brigade Headquarters, the COAS assured them of continued logistical support and improved welfare to sustain their morale and operational efficiency.
He reaffirmed his commitment to providing combat enablers, emphasizing the need for esprit de corps and camaraderie among troops to enhance their effectiveness.
“Let’s make Nigeria safe together,” General Oluyede urged, calling on troops to remain focused and determined in the fight against insecurity.
The visit to Zamfara is part of the COAS’ rigorous operations tour of Nigerian Army formations in the North West, which commenced on Monday, February 17, 2025. The tour aims to assess and reinvigorate ongoing military operations aimed at tackling security challenges in the region.
General Oluyede was accompanied by: Major General Abdulkalifa Ibrahim – Commander Infantry Corps, Major General Robert Sinjen – Chief of Operations (Army), Major General Erema Akerejola – Chief of Logistics (Army), Major General Mayerinso Saraso – General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Major General Ibikunle Ajose – General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Major General Abubakar Garba – Provost Marshal (Army)
The ongoing Operation Fansan Yamma remains a critical military initiative in combating banditry, terrorism, and other security threats in the North West, covering Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Niger State.