By Nkechi Eze
A new chapter has unfolded in the fight against insecurity in the Northwest as Major General Warrah Idris has formally assumed duty as the Commander of Headquarters Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), Zamfara State. His appointment follows his redeployment from the Defence Department of Transformation and Innovation, in line with the recent posting of senior officers approved by the Nigerian Army Headquarters after the appointment of the new Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs.
The official handing and taking over ceremony took place at the Theatre Headquarters of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Gusau, Zamfara State, on Monday, November 3, 2025.
According to a statement signed by the Media Information Officer of the Operation, Captain David Adewusi, the outgoing Acting Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, in his valedictory remarks, commended the officers, men, and civilian staff for their loyalty, professionalism, and dedication during his tenure. He attributed the successes recorded in the theatre to the collective effort and teamwork of the personnel and urged them to extend the same level of commitment and cooperation to his successor. Air Vice Marshal Abdullahi has since been redeployed to the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters (NAF HQ) as the Chief of Policy and Plans.
In his maiden address to the troops, Major General Warrah Idris expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to build upon the operational successes already achieved by the theatre. He assured personnel of his commitment to improving coordination and synergy among all components of the Joint Task Force and other security agencies operating in the region.
The new commander also emphasized discipline, innovation, and community engagement as key pillars of his leadership approach. “We must continue to work with focus and unity of purpose to restore lasting peace in our operational environment. Collaboration with communities and security stakeholders remains vital to achieving sustainable success,” he stated.
Highlights of the ceremony included the signing and exchange of handing and taking over notes, the symbolic presentation of the command flag, and a group photograph marking the official transfer of leadership.
