Troops Directed to Intensify Offensive Against North-West Bandits

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

The Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Major General W. B. Idris, has instructed troops of the 8 Division and Sector 2 OPFY to step up their operations against armed bandits and work towards completely eliminating them from the North West.

Major General Idris issued the directive during his first operational assessment tour of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division and Sector 2 OPFY at Giginya Barracks in Sokoto.

While addressing the troops, the Theatre Commander said the purpose of his visit was to appraise their performance, review training procedures, and inspect the welfare and treatment of soldiers who had sustained injuries in the line of duty.

He urged the personnel to be mentally ready for a fresh phase of intensified operations.

According to a statement released by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Major General Idris emphasised that the renewed drive to decisively defeat the bandits had only just commenced.

He added that success would depend on the bravery, commitment, discipline, and selflessness of the troops confronting the country’s security challenges.

The Theatre Commander also promised improved combat resources and logistical support to strengthen operational capability.

He praised the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 OPFY, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, for his proactive approach to addressing insecurity in the area.

During his visit, he met with wounded soldiers, assuring them of continued quality care. He also visited frontline personnel at the 248 Battalion in Ilela, where he had a meal with them to lift their spirits.

Earlier, the GOC had briefed him on recent operational achievements, ongoing training efforts, and current logistical challenges.

Key moments of the visit included an inspection of the Quarter Guard, a bouquet presentation by the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, an operational briefing by the GOC, inspection of the Division Training School, an address to troops, and interactions with wounded personnel.