By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division to intensify offensive operations and decisively flush out bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements operating within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The directive was given on Monday, 22 December 2025, during the COAS’ maiden operational visit to the 2 Division Headquarters at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, where he addressed officers and soldiers of the formation.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in tackling banditry, kidnapping and other security threats across the area.
“I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded,” the Army Chief said. “I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum. Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, and ensure that these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”
The COAS reaffirmed his resolve to sustain aggressive military action against criminal networks, stressing that the Nigerian Army would not relent in its efforts to restore peace and security within the Division’s area and beyond.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also used the visit to reiterate his commitment to the welfare of troops, describing morale as a critical factor in operational success. He disclosed that approvals had been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation as well as the construction of new residential facilities within Odugbo Barracks.
According to him, troop welfare remains a central pillar of his command philosophy, assuring officers and soldiers of continuous support to enable them carry out their duties effectively. He further urged troops to take responsibility for the proper maintenance of existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment.
The visit, according to the Army leadership, underscored the Chief of Army Staff’s determination to sustain pressure on criminal elements while improving the welfare and operational readiness of troops across the country.
