Step up operations against bandits in Kebbi, army commander urges soldiers

The Acting Commander, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Colonel Joseph Umaru, has charged commanders and troops of units under the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility in Kebbi State to intensify intelligence-led operations aimed at denying bandits and other criminal elements freedom of action.

In a post obtained from the Nigerian Army’s X handle on Thursday, Umaru gave the charge during his maiden familiarisation tour of units in the state from September 8-9 2026

The two-day tour took him to 223 Light Tank Battalion, Zuru; COAS Intervention Battalion (CIB) III, Sakaba; and 1 Battalion, Birnin Kebbi.

The visit, according to the Acting Commander, was aimed at gaining first-hand knowledge of the operational environment, assessing troops’ readiness and welfare, and strengthening command effectiveness in the ongoing fight against insecurity.

At 223 Light Tank Battalion, Zuru, the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel SS Dadirep, briefed Colonel Umaru on the prevailing security situation, ongoing operations, operational readiness and challenges confronting the unit.

The Acting Commander also emphasised the welfare and motivation of troops remain fundamental to mission success.

He further directed the Commanding Officers to fully embrace the Chief of Army Staff’s “Soldiers First” mantra by prioritising the welfare, motivation, training and professional development of personnel.

He stressed that troops who are properly led, motivated and equipped are better positioned to sustain operational pressure and accomplish assigned tasks.

“In line with this leadership units must strengthen intelligence-led operations through enhanced intelligence gathering, information sharing and cooperation with sister security agencies, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders.

“For sustained, coordinated and proactive operations to deny bandits and other criminal elements freedom of action commanders and troops must remain professional and adhere strictly to the rules of engagement and protection of civilians,” he stressed.