The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has ordered Nigerian troops to intensify operations against bandits and other criminal elements.
He declared that forests, deserts and national parks will no longer serve as safe havens for terrorists in the country.
Shaibu gave the directive on Monday while addressing officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division during an operational visit to Ibadan.
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Commending the troops for the successes recorded within their area of responsibility, he urged them to sustain the tempo and expand their operational dominance, particularly in difficult terrains.
“We must make it clear to them that there is no safe haven anywhere. Whether rain or sunshine, forested areas, deserts or mountainous regions, we will go after them,” Shaibu said.
He noted that criminal groups had exploited dense forests and challenging terrains to carry out attacks on innocent citizens, stressing that such advantages would no longer be tolerated.
The COAS directed troops to intensify night operations and maintain firm control of forested zones, describing terrain dominance as critical to denying bandits freedom of movement and operational space.
He highlighted security concerns around the Kwara axis, Kainji Lake National Park and Old Oyo National Park, saying firm directives had been issued to ensure the complete clearance of criminal elements from those areas.
“Clear everything in that place. We are moving with ruthless determination to eliminate all those disturbing that terrain,” he said.
Shaibu praised the General Officer Commanding (GOC) and senior officers for their leadership, noting that the operational briefing he received reflected focus and determination.
He urged commanders to continue leading from the front, describing leadership as key to sustaining operational superiority.
Expressing satisfaction with the morale and responsiveness of the troops, he said he expected more tangible results from the 2 Division area in the coming days.
On welfare, Shaibu assured officers and soldiers that their well-being remained a priority for Army Headquarters, pledging prompt payment of entitlements and improved logistics.
He disclosed that approval had been granted for additional renovation and construction of accommodation within barracks to ease pressure on existing facilities.
“You will be given all you require, and your entitlements will be paid as and when due,” he assured.
He added that sustained discipline, motivation and improved welfare were essential to defeating banditry and other criminal threats confronting communities across the region.
