Ilorin: The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops involved in Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD to enhance their control over the battlespace and escalate offensive operations against kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal entities in the North Central region. Shaibu issued this directive during his initial operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North Central (JTF-NC) at Sobi Barracks in Ilorin.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the directive was communicated through a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele. COAS Shaibu emphasized the Nigerian Army’s dedication to its constitutional duty of safeguarding lives and property, urging troops to maintain pressure to effectively restrict the freedom of action of criminal elements.
He assured the personnel of the ongoing deployment of combat enablers and operational resources aimed at enhancing clearance operations and dismantling criminal hideouts, particularly in Kwara and Niger states. The COAS reaffirmed his dedication to the welfare of the troops, highlighting that improved welfare is crucial for maintaining morale, operational effectiveness, and combat readiness.
Lt.-Gen. Shaibu also encouraged the troops to uphold discipline, professionalism, and loyalty to the Constitution and the democratically elected government. In his remarks, the Theatre Commander of JTF-NC Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, Maj.-Gen. Yakubu Yahaya, lauded the COAS for his strategic leadership and ongoing support.