The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, urged the troops of the Joint Task Force North Central, JTF-NC, Operation Savanna Shield, OPSS, to enhance their ongoing operations aimed at effectively eliminating kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements that threaten peace and security within the Joint Operations Area.
The COAS delivered this message while addressing the troops at Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, during his first operational visit to the Headquarters of JTF North Central OPSS in Kwara State.
Lieutenant General Waidi underscored the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, emphasising that the troops have maintained operational momentum to decisively prevent criminal elements from terrorising innocent citizens, infiltrating communities, or undermining national security.
He assured the troops that necessary combat enablers and operational resources are being allocated to bolster ongoing clearance operations and dismantle criminal hideouts throughout Kwara and Niger States.
The Army Chief also reiterated his dedication to the welfare of the troops and their families, highlighting that enhanced welfare is vital for maintaining high morale, operational effectiveness, and combat readiness. He encouraged the troops to uphold discipline, professionalism, and unwavering loyalty to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically elected government.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force (North Central) Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, Major General Y. Yahaya, expressed gratitude to the COAS for his timely interventions, strategic leadership, and ongoing support aimed at improving the operational capacity of the Joint Task Force. He assured the COAS that the troops involved in the operation would remain committed, professional, and steadfast in fulfilling their mandate to restore lasting peace and stability in the region.
