By Kazeem Waris
The Nigerian Army has activated three new Infantry Battalions in Zamfara State as part of intensified efforts to expand its operational reach and strengthen security across the troubled region.
The newly operationalised units are 12 Infantry Battalion, Bakura; 23 Infantry Battalion, Kaura Namoda; and 28 Infantry Battalion, Anka.
The Army said the deployment would enhance rapid response, widen operational coverage and strengthen security within the respective Areas of Responsibility (AORs) of the three battalions.
The development was contained in a statement issued by Captain Yusuf Mohammed, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Brigade.
Citizens must support security operations
Speaking during the ceremonies marking the operationalisation of the battalions, the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General B.P. Koughna, represented by the Acting Commander, 1 Brigade, Colonel Joseph Umaru, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustained operations aimed at protecting communities and restoring security.
Umaru said the military would continue to work to protect law-abiding citizens, stressing that lasting peace could not be achieved by the military alone.
“Lasting peace requires a synchronised effort combining the military, security agencies, traditional institutions and the general public,” he said.
He urged residents of Zamfara State to strengthen their cooperation with security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence that could assist troops in preventing and responding to security threats.
The commander also charged the newly deployed troops to remain disciplined, professional and vigilant while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
He reminded the personnel to operate strictly within established Rules of Engagement and maintain the highest standards of professionalism.
Monarchs back new army formations
Traditional rulers in the affected communities welcomed the establishment of the three additional battalions, describing the move as an important step towards improving security and restoring normalcy.
The Emir of Bakura, Alhaji Bello Sani; Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad; and Emir of Kaura Namoda, Major Dr Sanusi Mohammed Ahmed Asha (rtd), commended the Nigerian Army leadership for extending its operational presence to their communities.
The monarchs pledged the continued cooperation of traditional institutions with the military and other security agencies.
They particularly promised to support community mobilisation and information-sharing efforts aimed at strengthening security across the affected areas.
The activation of the three battalions is expected to increase the Army’s presence in communities across Zamfara and improve its ability to respond rapidly to security incidents within their respective areas of responsibility.
