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CDS orders sustained offensive against bandits in N’West

From The Punch · (just now) English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, ordered troops to sustain aggressive operations against bandits in the North-West.
  • He emphasized the critical need to eliminate criminal networks and ensure the safety of citizens at all costs.
  • The CDS visited Zamfara State to assess troop readiness and met with Governor Dauda Lawal to enhance collaboration, particularly in intelligence sharing.

In a decisive move to quell the persistent banditry and criminal activities plaguing Nigeria's North-West region, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a directive for troops to maintain and intensify aggressive operations. This mandate, delivered during an operational visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation Fansan Yamma in Gusau, Zamfara State, underscores the military's unwavering commitment to restoring peace and security across the affected areas.

General Oluyede stressed the paramount importance of eliminating criminal networks that terrorize communities, urging soldiers to remain resolute and uncompromising in their mission. "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 costs," he declared, emphasizing the gravity of the task and the non-negotiable objective of ensuring national safety.

During his visit, the CDS assessed the troops' readiness and addressed ongoing security challenges, commending their resilience and sacrifices. He assured personnel of continued military support, including enhancements in welfare, training, and operational equipment, while also highlighting efforts to bolster air support and inter-theater coordination to maximize operational effectiveness.

Further strengthening collaborative efforts, General Oluyede paid a courtesy call on Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal. He acknowledged the state government's crucial backing of military operations and called for deeper cooperation, especially in intelligence sharing, which is vital for preempting and neutralizing criminal activities. Governor Lawal, in turn, commended the Armed Forces for their dedication to restoring peace, recognizing their indispensable role in stabilizing Zamfara and the broader North-West region. This high-level engagement signals a renewed push to consolidate gains against banditry and bring lasting security to the region.

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 costs.

— General Olufemi OluyedeThe Chief of Defence Staff urged troops to sustain aggressive operations against criminals.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.