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The Nigerian military has increased its efforts to clear and maintain security in areas of Kwara and Niger states, as ongoing initiatives aim to address banditry, abductions, and other safety challenges in the North Central region.

The head of Headquarters 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, revealed this on Saturday at the 2025 Nigerian Army Social Events taking place at Sobi Cantonment in Ilorin.

He stated that the brigade has carried out multiple military operations within its Area of Responsibility, focusing on criminal groups active in border areas and forest reserves.

He mentioned that the operations involved Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Harmony in Kwara State, and the recently completed Operation Park Strike IV and V, which encompassed Kainji Lake National Park, nearby villages in the Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as the Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas of Kwara State.

“In 2025, the 22nd Armoured Brigade carried out multiple clearing operations, including Operation Park Strike IV and V, which targeted Kainji Lake National Park, nearby villages, and the broader regions of Borgu LGA in Niger State, as well as Kaiama and Baruten LGAs in Kwara State,” Rume stated.

He mentioned that Operation Fansan Yamma is still in progress, with the objective of removing outlaws and bringing peace to the affected areas.

The head of the brigade stated that the Army has further enhanced its active involvement by setting up Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Patigi and Ilemona, along with patrol stations in Babasango, Gada, and Daban Lema, to aid security efforts in Kwara and surrounding areas.

“These facilities support our activities in nearby countries and improve our ability to address security challenges,” he stated.

Rume pointed out that the Nigerian Army’s internal security efforts were driven by increasing dangers like terrorism, abductions, banditry, and armed theft, which have kept impacting certain areas in the North Central region.

He pledged to the residents that the Army is prepared to maintain cooperation with other security organizations in order to guarantee peace and security.

“I guarantee the preparedness of the 22nd Armoured Brigade to work with all security agencies in order to attain peace and safety within our region of operation,” he stated.

At the gathering, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq praised the Nigerian Army, especially the 22 Armoured Brigade, for its efforts in reducing unrest within the state.

Led by the Special Adviser for Security Issues, Brigadier General Saliu Tunde Bello (Retired), the military’s actions were highlighted as essential in protecting people and their means of survival, with acknowledgment of the successful partnership between the state government and the Army.

“I commend the tireless efforts of the 22 Armoured Brigade and the Nigerian Army in addressing these issues. Your courage and persistence in bringing back peace and stability are admirable, and it’s clear that your dedication is creating a real impact in our state,” AbdulRazaq stated.

He reasserted his administration’s dedication to providing the military with essential supplies and collaboration to enhance current missions.

“The cooperation between the military and the state government has produced favorable outcomes, and I wish to assure you of my steadfast dedication to this alliance,” the governor remarked.

AbdulRazaq also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for their guidance and assistance to the military forces.

The yearly Nigerian Army Social Events, as stated by military officials, provides a venue for promoting cohesion, enhancing spirit, and assessing combat readiness, while also honoring Nigeria’s varied cultural heritage among officers, troops, and their loved ones.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.Syndigate.info).