The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on troops of the 402 Special Forces Brigade to ramp up their offensives against terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements within their area of operation.
Speaking during an operational visit to the 402 Brigade in Kaduna State on Monday, Oluyede acknowledged the challenges faced by the troops and pledged to address them promptly.
He assured the soldiers of his commitment to improving their welfare and providing proper housing. Oluyede urged officers to lead by example, demonstrating courage and tactical precision in tackling security threats in their area.
He also commended the troops for their critical role in safeguarding the Kaduna-Abuja road and rail corridor, emphasizing that their performance has made them a linchpin for other military units.
The COAS was accompanied by the Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), key staff from Army Headquarters, and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division during his visit.
In a related development, the Nigerian military has recorded a significant victory in the fight against banditry and terrorism in the North-West region.
Four notorious bandit leaders, including Abu Radde and Umar Black, surrendered their arms following successful operations by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) and ground troops under Operation FASAN YAMMA.
The military operations, which included airstrikes and joint air interdictions, led to the release of 15 captives, comprising three men, eight women, and four children. The victims, rescued in Batsari, Katsina State, have been handed over to local authorities for rehabilitation and aftercare.
The surrender ceremony, held on January 19, 2025, was attended by military representatives and other stakeholders, marking a crucial step toward disarmament and the restoration of peace in the region.
The bandits turned in four AK-47 rifles, which are now in the custody of the 17 Brigade to prevent further violence. This development is a major relief for the residents of Katsina State, who have endured years of insecurity.
The military described the surrender as a testament to the success of intensified operations and the resilience of Nigerian troops.
