- Shaibu stressed that sustained pressure on armed groups remains essential to restoring stability in the region
- He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army will continue to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of defending lives and property
- Shaibu highlighted troop welfare as a key priority, stating that improved conditions of service remain critical to morale
Security operations in Nigeria’s North-Central region are set for a renewed push as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops under Operation Savannah Shield to intensify action against kidnappers, armed bandits and other violent criminal groups.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that the directive followed an operational assessment visit to the Joint Task Force headquarters at Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Kwara State, where the Army Chief reviewed ongoing counter-insurgency efforts and engaged field commanders on the security situation in the theatre.
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Military authorities say the renewed push is aimed at denying criminal groups freedom of movement and disrupting their ability to launch attacks on communities across Kwara, Niger and neighbouring states.
Shaibu stressed that sustained pressure on armed groups remains essential to restoring stability in the region, which has continued to face insecurity challenges linked to kidnapping and banditry.
He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Army will continue to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of defending lives and property, adding that operations would be strengthened until criminal networks are dismantled.
The Army Chief also confirmed that additional operational support, including logistics and combat resources, would be deployed to improve the effectiveness of ongoing clearance missions.
He described the North-Central as a strategically important zone in the country’s security framework, noting that instability in the region has wider implications for national peace and development.
Troops were urged to maintain professionalism, discipline and sustained operational focus, with instructions to respond swiftly to emerging threats and prevent attacks on vulnerable communities.
Beyond combat operations, Shaibu highlighted troop welfare as a key priority, stating that improved conditions of service remain critical to morale and operational efficiency in the field.
He encouraged personnel to remain committed to constitutional duty and uphold loyalty to democratic authority while carrying out security assignments.
In response, the Theatre Commander of Operation Savannah Shield, Major General Y. Yahaya, welcomed the Army Chief’s visit, describing it as a strong morale booster for troops on the frontlines.
He said the support from Army Headquarters had continued to enhance operational capacity and coordination across the theatre.
Yahaya assured that personnel under the operation remain committed to restoring peace and ensuring lasting security across the North-Central region.
