By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade to intensify efforts toward eliminating terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities within their Joint Operations Area and the wider Southern Kaduna region.
General Oluyede gave the directive during an operational visit to the Brigade stationed in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna State, where he assessed the combat readiness of troops and evaluated operational challenges confronting the formation.
In an official signed statement, the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that the visit was aimed at assessing the Brigade’s operational preparedness and identifying critical gaps requiring intervention to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations in the area.
The Defence Chief expressed satisfaction with the level of alertness, professionalism and commitment demonstrated by the troops, urging them to remain resolute in confronting criminal elements threatening peace and security in the region.
Addressing the personnel, General Oluyede emphasized the need for troops to adopt innovative operational strategies capable of keeping them ahead of criminal networks.
“You must keep out-witting criminals by anticipating their actions and evolving effective counter measures. We will continue to support you with the necessary equipment, enablers, platforms and pay due attention to your welfare that will ensure your success,” the CDS stated.
Earlier in his operational briefing, the Commander of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade, Captain (NN) OJ Ekuma, highlighted major achievements recorded by the formation since its establishment in 2024.
According to him, the Brigade had successfully neutralised several criminal elements, recovered weapons and rustled cattle, rescued kidnapped victims and arrested high-profile bandits alongside their collaborators.
Captain Ekuma further disclosed that the Brigade had significantly disrupted the movement and activities of bandits within its operational area, leading to improved security and stability across affected communities in Southern Kaduna.
As part of the operational appraisal, the Chief of Defence Staff inspected ongoing Defence Headquarters projects and military deployments within the area. He also directed the immediate provision of critical operational equipment and platforms identified as inadequate for the Brigade’s operations.
The visit, which was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General JH Abdussalam; General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Major General EF Oyinlola; and other senior military officers, underscored the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to enhancing troop welfare, closing operational gaps and sustaining optimal combat efficiency in ongoing security operations nationwide.
