The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has vowed to bolster security for farmers in Zamfara State, ensuring their safety from bandit attacks. This commitment was made during his visit to the state on Friday, where he reassured the government and people of Zamfara that the Nigerian Armed Forces (AFN) would implement necessary measures to enable farmers to work their lands without fear.
The visit is part of a wider effort to tackle the ongoing insecurity in the region and restore stability to communities affected by banditry. During a meeting with Governor Dauda Lawal at the Government House in Gusau, General Musa expressed appreciation for the governor’s support of the AFN and other security agencies working in the state.
Despite the persistent security challenges, General Musa acknowledged the progress Zamfara had made over the past year and reiterated the military’s commitment to peace. He emphasized that protecting farmers from bandits is a top priority, pledging that the AFN would provide the necessary security for a productive farming season, which would help ease the hardships faced by citizens.
He also called on the people of Zamfara to cooperate with security forces by refraining from aiding bandits and instead providing critical information that could assist in military operations. To improve the effectiveness of security efforts, Musa announced a strategic overhaul, renaming the current military campaign “Operation FANSAN YAMMA” and elevating it to a Theater Command. This upgrade will involve the appointment of General Officers Commanding as component commanders to enhance coordination among security forces.
In his address to troops of the 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, who had recently ambushed and neutralized a significant number of terrorists, General Musa commended their bravery and assured them that the military would continue to provide all the necessary resources for the fight against terrorism.
Governor Lawal, in his response, thanked the CDS for his dedication and expressed optimism that the new military strategies would bring much-needed peace to the state. He also noted that General Musa’s presence had significantly boosted the morale of Zamfara’s citizens, who now feel more hopeful about an end to the insecurity that has plagued the region.
In a related development, the Sector One Joint Task Force (NW) Operation Hadarin Daji recently intercepted a terrorist escape route along the Gusau-Funtua Road, neutralizing 40 terrorists, including notorious bandit leader Halilu Buzu. The operation also resulted in the recovery of arms and motorcycles.
