By Ologeh Joseph Chibu
The Federal Government has expressed its unwavering commitment to combatting insecurity and banditry across the country.
Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Abubakar made the commitment during a courtesy visit to Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani.
Both met at Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House in Kaduna, as part of his official tour of the North-West region.
A statement made available to Irohinodua on the visit.
The visit aimed to finalize plans for the launch of “Operation Fansan Yamma,” a joint military command designed to address insecurity in the region. Abubakar highlighted the establishment of a Command and Control Centre in the North-West zone as a critical step toward resolving the ongoing security challenges.
“The president has charged us to be innovative and find lasting solutions to this security problem. We’re working hard to ensure its success,” Abubakar said, addressing the press after the meeting.
The Defence Minister further noted that the government is collaborating closely with neighboring countries, particularly Niger Republic, to curb terrorism and arms trafficking. He explained that this partnership includes joint military operations and intelligence sharing, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation.
Abubakar also acknowledged security concerns along the Sokoto border, assuring the public that proactive measures are being taken to address these issues. He expressed optimism that the collaboration with Niger would reduce the flow of arms and militants across the border.
We’re fully aware of the security situation in Sokoto and the borders with Niger. “It’s a real concern, but we are not unaware of the situation. We are working hard to tackle it. The collaboration with Niger will help combat the movement of terrorists, arms, and ammunition,” he said.
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani stressed the need for regional collaboration to combat insecurity. He underscored the importance of supporting security forces and improving intelligence gathering to combat terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.
“We must establish a Command and Control Centre to coordinate our joint efforts against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements in our region. We must also amplify support to our security forces, enhance our localized intelligence systems, stimulate investment in agriculture and agri-business, expand rural infrastructure, broaden access to education and healthcare, and promote inclusivity among all our citizens,” Governor Sani said.
The governor also highlighted the devastating impact of insecurity on the North-West region, describing how it has led to food insecurity, limited access to healthcare, and increased poverty.
“Our zone, which is the food basket of Nigeria, now faces the challenge of food insecurity. Our people can not access health facilities. Most of our children are out of school due to the activities of criminals with scant regard for human life and dignity. Poverty has worsened. Fear pervades our zone,” Sani lamented.
Despite these challenges, the governor expressed optimism that the forthcoming “Operation Fansan Yamma” would create a secure environment conducive to economic growth and investment.
Sani further proposed that the current “Operation Safe Haven,” which oversees security in Southern Kaduna, be reassigned to 1 Division in Kaduna for improved operational efficiency. He also commended ongoing efforts to establish “Operation Safe Corridor” for the North-West, stressing the importance of a strong collaborative framework between security agencies and state authorities.
Finally, Governor Sani thanked President Bola Tinubu for his steadfast support of the North-West region and praised the Defence Ministry and Military High Command for their role in addressing the security crisis.
“We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s uncommon and sustained support to the North-West Zone. He has shown courage in adversity. We are grateful to him for always listening to us and taking practical steps to actualise our recommendations,” he added.
