COAS Orders Troops to Intensify Offensive Against Bandits, Kidnappers

The Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of the Joint Task Force North Central, Operation Savannah Shield, to intensify ongoing operations against kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements operating across the region.

Shaibu gave the directive on Thursday during a visit to Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Kwara State, where he addressed personnel of the Joint Task Force as part of his maiden operational tour of the command.

According to a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property nationwide.

He charged troops to sustain operational momentum aimed at denying criminal groups the freedom to operate, infiltrate communities, or undermine national security.

“The COAS charged troops of the Joint Task Force North Central, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, to intensify ongoing operations aimed at decisively routing kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening peace and security,” the statement said.

Shaibu also assured personnel that Army Headquarters would deploy additional combat enablers and resources to strengthen clearance operations across affected areas in Kwara State and Niger State.

He emphasized that improved welfare for troops and their families remained a priority, noting that morale and operational readiness depend heavily on adequate support systems.

The Army Chief urged soldiers to remain disciplined, professional, and loyal to the Constitution and the civilian authority.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander of Operation Savannah Shield, Major General Y. Yahaya, commended the COAS for his strategic leadership and pledged continued commitment by troops to restore peace and stability in the North Central region.