The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new military formations in Kebbi State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and expand its presence across the North-West.

The formations are the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, represented by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj. Gen. Paul Koughna, said the development would improve the Army’s capacity to respond to security threats.

Shaibu said the establishment of the 28 Brigade was part of efforts to optimise the Army’s force structure, expand its operational footprint, strengthen command and control and improve response times across the region.

He charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Col. Abdullahi Umar, to ensure that the formation contributed effectively to ongoing operations within its area of responsibility, particularly against banditry and other criminal activities affecting vulnerable communities.

The Army Chief also urged officers and soldiers to maintain discipline and professionalism while working closely with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.

He directed the troops to observe the Rules of Engagement and protect law-abiding citizens while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

Shaibu also commiserated with residents of Jandutse community over the recent killing of a resident during a bandit attack and assured them that the military would increase its presence in the area to prevent further attacks.

The Kebbi State Government welcomed the operationalisation of the formations, describing the move as a boost to security efforts in the state.

The state Commissioner for Information and Culture, Alhaji Yakubu Ahmed BK, said the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi would strengthen security operations and improve responses to emerging threats.

He added that the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje would enhance counter-insurgency and combat operations across the state.

Ahmed also commended the police, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, hunters and community-based vigilante groups for their contributions to protecting lives and property.

He urged residents to provide credible information about the activities and movements of bandits and other criminal elements, while warning against offering criminals information or other forms of support.

The commissioner said the state government would continue supporting security agencies in their efforts to protect residents and sustain peace across Kebbi.