The Chief of Defence Staff of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA to intensify ongoing military operations against bandits and other criminal groups across the North-West region.
Oluyede issued the directive during an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North-West, located in Gusau, Zamfara State.
The visit was aimed at assessing troop readiness, addressing operational challenges, and boosting morale in the sustained campaign against insecurity in the region.
Addressing frontline soldiers, the CDS commended their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in defending the country, urging them to remain disciplined and relentless in the fight against banditry and terrorism.
“The safety of our citizens rests on our shoulders. You must remain resolute and go after these criminals until they are eliminated.
”We must make Nigeria safe at all cost,” he was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
Oluyede assured troops of continued support from the military leadership, particularly in the areas of welfare, training, and provision of operational equipment needed to enhance effectiveness on the battlefield.
He reiterated the commitment of the Armed Forces to sustaining pressure on armed groups until lasting peace is restored in the North-West and other affected parts of the country.
The Defence Chief also emphasised the importance of air support in ongoing operations, noting that efforts were being made to strengthen coordination across various theatres of operation and improve military capabilities through additional platforms.
As part of the visit, Oluyede paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, where he expressed appreciation for the state government’s support to military operations.
He also commended residents of Zamfara for their cooperation and urged continued collaboration with security agencies, especially through timely and credible intelligence sharing.
In his remarks, Governor Lawal praised the Armed Forces for their sustained efforts and sacrifices in restoring peace and stability to Zamfara and the wider North-West region.
The visit included operational briefings, interaction with troops, assessment of deployments, and media engagements as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen counter-insurgency operations.
