CDS Orders Fresh Crackdown on Bandits, Rallies Troops in North-West

CDS Orders Fresh Crackdown on Bandits, Rallies Troops in North-West

Tukur Abdullahi, Birin Kebbi

The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a firm directive to frontline troops under Operation Fansan Yamma to escalate military offensives against bandits and other criminal groups operating across Nigeria’s North-West.

The charge was delivered during his operational visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force North West in Gusau, Zamfara State, where he assessed ongoing military activities and the overall readiness of personnel in the theatre.

Details of the visit were disclosed in a statement by Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, who noted that the trip formed part of efforts to evaluate field operations, identify operational challenges, and motivate troops engaged in restoring peace to the troubled region.

Addressing officers and soldiers, the defence chief praised their bravery and commitment, acknowledging the sacrifices being made daily in the line of duty. He, however, urged them to sustain the momentum and intensify pressure on criminal networks.

“The responsibility of protecting Nigerians lies with us. You must stay focused and pursue these threats decisively until they are completely neutralised. The mission is clear—we must secure this country,” he charged.

Oluyede further assured troops of enhanced institutional backing, including improved welfare packages, continuous training, and the supply of modern combat equipment to boost operational efficiency.

Reaffirming the military’s resolve, he said the Armed Forces would maintain relentless operations until peace and stability are firmly restored across the North-West and other affected regions.

He also underscored the growing importance of air support in ongoing campaigns, revealing that steps are being taken to expand aerial capabilities and improve coordination across different operational theatres.

During the visit, the CDS paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, where he commended the state government for its continued cooperation with security agencies.

He equally called on residents to sustain their support for military operations, particularly by providing credible and timely intelligence that could aid ongoing offensives.

In his response, Governor Lawal acknowledged the efforts of the Armed Forces, praising their persistence and sacrifices in tackling insecurity within the state and the wider region.

The visit featured a comprehensive operational briefing, inspection of troops and equipment, as well as direct engagement with personnel on the ground.