The Nigerian Army has declared that bandits operating across the North-West region are "feeling the heat" of intensified military operations, despite growing public concern over worsening attacks and mass abductions in the area.
Military Assures Public Amid Security Concerns
Major General Warrah Idris, the Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force North West operating under Operation FANSAN Yamma (OPFY), provided this assurance during an on-the-spot assessment of the scene where schoolgirls were recently abducted in Niger State. The senior military officer emphasized that coordinated offensives have significantly restricted the movement and freedom previously enjoyed by criminal groups in the region.
"The bandits are clearly feeling the heat of our operations and will find no safe haven," Major General Idris declared during his visit to the affected area. This statement comes at a time when communities in the North-West are experiencing increased anxiety due to persistent security challenges.
Rescue Efforts for Abducted Schoolgirls Intensify
The military has intensified efforts to track down those responsible for the abduction of pupils from St Mary's Catholic School in Papiri, located in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State. During his assessment visit, Major General Idris received comprehensive briefings from field commanders about the ongoing search and rescue operations.
Major General C. R. Nnebiefe, the General Officer Commanding 2 Division and Commander Sector 3 OPFY, provided the Theatre Commander with detailed updates on joint operations involving multiple security agencies. The briefing specifically covered measures being implemented to ensure the safe return of the abducted pupils to their families.
Sustained Pressure on Criminal Elements
In a statement released by Captain David Adewusi, the Media Information Officer of OPFY, the military reaffirmed its determination to maintain relentless pressure on armed groups operating in the North-West. The Theatre Commander personally charged troops to remain vigilant and persistent in pursuing the perpetrators of these attacks.
"Remain vigilant and relentless. We will not allow these criminals any respite until the pupils are safely recovered," Major General Idris told soldiers during his interaction with them. He further assured military personnel that all necessary resources, logistics, and operational support would be provided to guarantee the success of their mission to rescue the abducted children and restore security to affected communities.
The military's renewed offensive comes as part of broader efforts to address the security challenges that have plagued Nigeria's North-West region, where bandit activities have resulted in numerous casualties and widespread displacement of civilian populations.
