December 31, (THEWILL) — The Sokoto State Government has commended the Nigerian Army for what it described as remarkable successes in the fight against banditry and insecurity across the Northwest.
The Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmad Aliyu, Colonel Ahmed Abdu (rtd), gave the commendation at the West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration held at the Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto.
Speaking on behalf of the state governor, the Special Adviser acknowledged an improved safety and renewed confidence among Sokoto residents.
Ahmed described the Army’s efforts as critical to the restoration of peace in the region and reaffirmed the government’s continued collaboration with the military to promote security and development.
He also lauded the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for what he described as exemplary leadership since his appointment.
Earlier, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, disclosed that troops recorded significant operational gains in 2025 despite the challenges of combating armed banditry.
Ajose said the Army rescued 1,023 kidnapped victims, recovered 189 AK-47 rifles and 4,338 rounds of assorted ammunition, seized 305 motorcycles used by bandits, and recovered 4,123 rustled livestock during operations across the region.
He added that several notorious bandit leaders were neutralised in the course of sustained military offensives.
He described the campaign as “challenging but eventful”, the GOC said the achievements had contributed to the restoration of security and boosted economic activities, allowing farmers and residents to resume their livelihoods.
“The war against banditry and terrorism is being progressively won by our troops through professionalism, resilience and strategic leadership”, Ajose said.
He attributed the successes to the dedication of officers and soldiers, as well as the support and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff.
Ajose also highlighted efforts to improve troop welfare, including the upgrade of medical facilities and accommodation within the Division, stressing that improved welfare was key to sustaining morale and operational effectiveness.
In his vote of thanks, the Commander, 8 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Abdulmalik Mohammed Jibia, assured that the Division would sustain the momentum of its operations to ensure lasting peace and security across the North West.
The WASA event, which marked the end of the 2025 training year, featured colourful cultural performances, displays of cuisines from various military formations and a tug-of-war contest.
Tunde Omolehin is an award-winning Journalist with prose in investigative and storytelling that is connecting the dots between the under-reported communities and policymakers to ensure good governance and accountability.
