ARMY ACTIVATES THREE NEW FORMATIONS IN KEBBI TO BOOST SECURITY

The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new military formations in Kebbi State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and improve the fight against banditry and other criminal activities in the North-West.

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

Speaking at the operationalisation ceremony, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, represented by the General Officer Commanding 8 Division, Maj. Gen. Paul Koughna, said the new formations would expand the Army’s operational presence and improve its response to security threats.

Shaibu charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Col. Abdullahi Umar, to ensure the formation contributed effectively to ongoing operations in its area of responsibility.

He also urged officers and soldiers to maintain discipline and professionalism, work closely with other security agencies and strictly observe the Rules of Engagement while protecting law-abiding citizens.

The Army Chief also commiserated with residents of Jandutse over the recent killing of a resident during a bandit attack and assured them of increased military presence to prevent further attacks.

The Kebbi State Government welcomed the development, describing the new formations as a boost to security efforts across the state.

The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Yakubu Ahmed BK, said the formations would strengthen counter-insurgency and combat operations while improving the security forces’ ability to respond to emerging threats.

He also urged residents to provide credible information on the activities and movements of bandits and other criminal groups and warned against supporting criminals.

Yakubu commended security agencies and community-based vigilante groups for their efforts, while urging youths to stay away from violence and criminal activities to support peace and development in the state.