The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops operating in the South West to intensify offensive operations against criminal elements threatening peace and security in the region.
The directive was issued during his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division Area of Responsibility (AOR), where he addressed officers and soldiers at Odogbo Barracks in Ibadan, Oyo State. During the visit, the Army Chief commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and effectiveness in tackling banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the division’s operational area.
General Shaibu said the Army Headquarters had been fully briefed on ongoing operations and the successes recorded so far by troops in the South West. He praised their commitment and urged them to sustain the tempo of operations to further degrade criminal networks operating within forests, bushes and other hideouts.
“I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded. I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum,” the COAS said. “Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”
He stressed that the Nigerian Army remains determined to deny criminals any safe haven and restore lasting peace to communities affected by insecurity.
Beyond operational matters, the Army Chief reassured officers and soldiers of his commitment to improving their welfare. He disclosed that approvals had already been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks, noting that troop welfare and morale are central to operational effectiveness.
According to him, the wellbeing of personnel remains a core component of his command philosophy, as motivated troops are better positioned to deliver on national security objectives. He also encouraged soldiers to take responsibility for the maintenance of existing facilities to ensure a conducive living and working environment.
The visit highlights the Nigerian Army’s renewed resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements in the South West while simultaneously enhancing the welfare, morale and operational readiness of its personnel.
