The Nigerian Army has deployed a new armoured brigade and other military formations in Kebbi State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and improve responses to threats across the North-West.
The 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison was activated in Birnin Kebbi, while the 281 Tank Battalion was operationalised in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, approved the activation of the formations.
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, represented the Chief of Army Staff during the activation.
Koughna said the new formations would expand the Army’s presence in the region, improve command and control and reduce the time needed to respond to security threats.
He directed the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to use the formation’s fire support capabilities to assist ongoing operations against criminal elements and other threats in Kebbi.
The GOC also urged the troops to remain disciplined and professional, obey the Rules of Engagement and protect law-abiding citizens while performing their constitutional duties.
Inside Kebbi state:
Suspected Bandits Kill Kebbi Village Head, Force Residents To Flee
Army Rescues 10 Civilians in Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara Operations
Police Arrest Six Over Theft of INEC Generators, Cable Vandalism in Kebbi
During the visit, Koughna expressed sympathy to residents of Jandutse community over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack.
He assured the community that the increased military presence would help improve the safety of residents and strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities across the state.
The Army said the activation of the formations was part of its broader efforts to reorganise its forces and strengthen security operations in the North-West.
About the Author
