The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new Infantry Battalions in Zamfara to enhance rapid response capabilities, and secure communities from banditry and kidnappings that have ravaged parts of the state.
Newsmen report that the newly activated units are 12 Infantry Battalion, 23 Infantry Battalion and 28 Infantry Battalion in Bakura, Kaura Namoda, and Anka local government areas respectively.
Speaking at the event, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector II Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Maj.-Gen. BP Koughna, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to sustaining aggressive operations and protecting law-abiding citizens.
Koughna who was represented by the Acting Commander, I Brigade, Col. Joseph Umaru emphasised that lasting peace requires synchronised cooperation between the military, sister security agencies, traditional institutions, and the general public.
The GOC urged residents of Zamfara to continuously support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence.
He appealed for support from the traditional institutions, especially emirates under who’s domains the battalions were domiciled.
The GOC charged the newly deployed troops to maintain strict discipline, professionalism, and operational vigilance in full alignment with their constitutional mandate and established rules of engagement.
Meanwhile, in separate remarks, the Emir of Bakura, Alhaji Bello Sani; the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Ahmad; and the Emir of Kaura Namoda, retired Maj. Sanusi Asha, commended the leadership of the Nigerian Army for establishing the additional battalions.
The traditional rulers described the deployment as a crucial milestone towards restoring normalcy and safety across communities.
They assured the military of the the cooperation and backing of the traditional institution through community mobilisation and information sharing.