Army Chief calls for nationwide support in battle against insecurity
The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Olufemi Oluyede, has called on Nigerians to intensify their support for the country’s military forces in the ongoing fight against insecurity.
Speaking during his maiden operational visit to Sokoto, Oluyede stressed the importance of community collaboration in overcoming the nation’s security challenges.
The Army chief made these remarks after meeting with senior officers at the headquarters of the 8 Division in Sokoto.
Oluyede visited the Masallaci community in Tangaza Local Government Area, where he reviewed the readiness of soldiers deployed to the region.
“I am here to assess the readiness of my soldiers and to encourage them to keep up the good work they are doing in securing our country,” Oluyede stated.
He added that the military would continue to need the support of Nigerians, particularly from local communities, to combat insecurity more effectively.
Oluyede also urged community residents to provide timely and accurate information to the military, emphasising that such cooperation is critical in the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities.
The Army chief further addressed the emergence of the new terror group, Lukarawa, acknowledging the inevitability of security challenges.
However, he emphasised that the nation’s response to these challenges would be key to overcoming them.
“There will always be challenges, but the key is how we react to them. That’s why I’m here – to meet with my people and prepare them for these challenges,” Oluyede said.
Appealing to Nigerians, Oluyede noted that national security and economic prosperity are intertwined.
“Nigeria belongs to all of us. If we don’t get the support of the people, we cannot succeed, and the country will not be secured. We need the backing of Nigerians to ensure our collective security and drive economic growth,” he said.
During the visit, Oluyede also engaged troops in Illela Local Government Area and met with officers from other security agencies to discuss the need for greater synergy between the various branches of the nation’s security forces.
