By Nkechi Eze
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has reassured residents of Tidibale community in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to their safety and the restoration of lasting peace in the area.
Major General Koughna gave the assurance during an assessment visit to Tidibale community, undertaken as part of his first official engagements since assuming command. The visit followed the safe return of residents who had previously fled the community due to threats posed by bandits.
In an official statement signed by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the GOC explained that the visit was aimed at assessing the security situation on ground and reassuring the people of the Army’s readiness to protect them as they resume normal life.
Addressing members of the community, Major General Koughna reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s dedication to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that the protection of civilians remains a core mandate of the Armed Forces. He assured residents that troops have been deployed and are permanently stationed in Tidibale to maintain a strong and visible security presence, remain vigilant, and respond swiftly to any emerging threats or emergencies.
The GOC emphasized that no part of Tidibale community would be allowed to fall under the control of bandit groups, adding that the Army is determined to deny criminal elements any foothold in the area. He encouraged residents to confidently return to their farms and other daily activities without fear, assuring them of continuous protection.
Major General Koughna also called on the people to remain alert and cooperate closely with security agencies by promptly reporting any suspicious movements or activities. According to him, effective collaboration between the military and the local population is critical to sustaining peace and strengthening security across communities in the North West.
Speaking on behalf of the Tidibale community, the Sarkin Arewa, Alhaji Ibrahim, expressed profound appreciation to the GOC for the visit, describing it as timely and reassuring in view of the security challenges previously faced by the community. He said the presence of the Army leadership had renewed the people’s hope and confidence, noting that residents are deeply grateful for the efforts of the Nigerian Army in securing the area and enabling them to return to their homes and livelihoods.
Alhaji Ibrahim added that the community has strong confidence in Major General Koughna’s leadership and commitment, expressing optimism that his tenure would bring enduring peace and stability to Tidibale and surrounding areas.
Earlier, upon arrival at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Isa, the GOC received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Commanding Officer, 26 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha. The briefing detailed the prevailing security situation, ongoing operations and measures being implemented to sustain recent gains against criminal elements in the area.
The Nigerian Army has reiterated its resolve to continue working closely with local communities and other stakeholders to consolidate security gains, protect lives and property, and foster lasting peace and stability across the North West region.
