By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Army has recorded major operational successes against banditry in the North-West, rescuing no fewer than 1,023 kidnap victims and recovering 189 AK-47 rifles during sustained counter-banditry operations across the region.
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Ibikunle Ademola Ajose, disclosed this on Wednesday at the 2025 West African Social Activities (WASA) celebration held at the Giginya Cantonment, Sokoto.
Major General Ajose said the achievements were recorded over the past year through coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic operations conducted by troops of the Division in bandit-infested areas of Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi and adjoining states. He explained that the operations were designed to dismantle criminal networks, deny bandits freedom of action and restore confidence among affected communities.
According to him, in addition to rescuing abducted victims, troops recovered 4,338 rounds of assorted ammunition, seized 305 motorcycles commonly used by bandits for raids and quick escapes, and recovered 4,123 rustled livestock. He added that several high-profile bandit leaders were also neutralised in the course of the operations.
“The successes recorded by our troops have significantly degraded the operational capacity of bandits and terrorists in the North-West. These efforts have restored confidence among the people and enabled farmers and traders to return to their legitimate activities without fear,” Ajose said.
He described the outcome of Operation FANSAN YAMMA as clear evidence that the fight against banditry and terrorism in the region was being progressively won. Ajose attributed the gains to the resilience, professionalism and sacrifice of the troops, as well as the strategic leadership and support of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.
The GOC further disclosed that the Division had continued to prioritise the welfare of its personnel, with ongoing upgrades of medical facilities and accommodation across formations. He stressed that improved welfare remained critical to sustaining troop morale and enhancing operational effectiveness.
Speaking on behalf of the Sokoto State Governor, the Special Adviser on Security, Colonel Ahmed Abdu (retd.), commended the Nigerian Army for its sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property in the state and the wider region. He described WASA as a symbol of unity, discipline and cultural pride within the military, and reaffirmed the state government’s continued partnership with the Army in the pursuit of lasting peace and security.
The colourful WASA celebration featured cultural performances, displays of cuisines from different formations and a tug-of-war contest, as officers, soldiers, their families and invited guests came together to celebrate the operational milestones recorded by the Division over the past year.
