Insecurity: Tinubu approves new army battalion for Kwara

President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Army battalion in Kwara State, a move aimed at bolstering security and intensifying efforts against banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes.

The new military formation will be situated in Omu Aran, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area. Its presence is expected to increase troop deployment and military hardware in the region, thereby enhancing security operations, particularly in communities grappling with a rise in kidnappings and bandit attacks.

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On behalf of the people and government of our state, I wholeheartedly thank Mr President for yet another promise kept to the state. We are confident that the new battalion will greatly strengthen counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various theatres.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed the approval, expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for fulfilling a promise to the state. He stated that the new battalion would significantly strengthen ongoing counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations. The governor also extended his appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for expediting the request for additional military support in the state.

AbdulRazaq further acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies for their persistent efforts in combating violent crimes in Kwara. This development comes at a critical time, as parts of Kwara, especially the Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, have seen a worrying increase in insecurity. Residents have raised alarms about ongoing bandit operations and alleged that influential individuals are discouraging them from reporting attacks. The recent killing of one resident and abduction of another in Babanla have heightened fears, with the community reportedly becoming a base for criminal gangs.

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Specifically, I express our appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the swiftness with which he graciously processed our request for more hands to strengthen the presence of the Army in the state.