The Commander Infantry Corps (CIC), Major General Godwin Mutkut, has charged troops of Headquarters 18 Brigade/Sector 2 Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD (OPSS) in Bida, Niger State, to sustain and intensify ongoing offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening peace and security in the state.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Headquarters 18 Brigade, Captain Adebayo Samuel Adewumi, the charge was given during the Commander Infantry Corps’ two-day operational assessment visit to Headquarters 18 Brigade/Sector 2 OPSS from July 24 to 25, 2026.
The visit formed part of the Commander Infantry Corps’ routine operational engagements aimed at evaluating operational effectiveness, boosting troop morale, and assessing the welfare of personnel deployed on internal security operations.
Addressing the troops, Major General Mutkut conveyed the commendation of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, for their gallantry, resilience, and dedication in the fight against terrorism. While praising their efforts, he urged them not to relent until the security threats confronting the area had been completely eliminated.
He also reminded the personnel of the various welfare initiatives introduced by the Nigerian Army to improve the well-being of soldiers and their families, stressing that the benefits should inspire greater professionalism, discipline, and commitment to duty.
The Infantry Corps Commander warned against acts that undermine the ethics, customs, and traditions of the Nigerian Army, emphasizing that the Service maintains zero tolerance for drug abuse, theft, fighting, and the misuse of social media. He further encouraged the troops to pay attention to their families, noting that a stable home environment contributes significantly to operational effectiveness.
Earlier, the Commander of 18 Brigade/Sector 2 OPSS, Brigadier General Hassan Toro, briefed the visiting Commander Infantry Corps on the prevailing security situation, operational achievements, and challenges within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.
In a related engagement, Major General Mutkut met with the Magajiyas and wives of soldiers, describing them as the “unsung heroes” whose sacrifices and support help maintain the morale and mental stability of troops serving on the frontlines. He acknowledged their vital role in sustaining the fighting spirit of military personnel.
The operational assessment visit also featured an inspection of key facilities and ongoing infrastructure projects within Litani Barracks, Bida.
Senior military officers who accompanied the Commander Infantry Corps included the Commander, 1 National Mission Force Brigade, Brigadier General O.O. Coker, as well as members of the assessment team, Colonel M.M. Marwa, Colonel J.K. Adisa, Lieutenant Colonel S.S. Ogundele, and staff officers from Headquarters 18 Brigade and Headquarters 1 National Mission Force Brigade.
