Army activates three new battalions to boost security in Zamfara - Punch Newspapers
The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new Infantry Battalions in Zamfara State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and improve rapid response across the state. In a statement by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Gusau, on Tuesday on X, the newly activated units are the 12 Infantry Battalion in Bakura, 23 Infantry Battalion in Kaura Namoda and 28 Infantry Battalion in Anka. The battalions are expected to expand the Army’s operational coverage and secure their respective Areas of Responsibility (AOR). Speaking during the activation ceremonies, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General BP Koughna, represented by the Acting Commander, 1 Brigade, Colonel Joseph Umaru, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to strengthening security operations in the state. Colonel Umaru said the military would continue to work towards protecting law-abiding citizens, stressing that lasting peace required cooperation among security agencies, traditional institutions and communities.See more Punch stories on Google.Add Punch on Google He called on residents to support security agencies by providing “timely, credible, and actionable intelligence.” Addressing the newly deployed troops, Umaru charged them to maintain discipline, professionalism and operational vigilance while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities and adhering to established Rules of Engagement. The traditional rulers in the three locations also welcomed the establishment of the new battalions. Soldiers rescue 41 abducted travellers in Zamfara Soldiers rescue 41 Senegal-to-Kano travellers in Zamfara NDLEA, Army destroy cannabis farms, arrest two suspects in Edo The Emir of Bakura, Alhaji Bello Sani; Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad; and Emir of Kaura Namoda, Maj. Dr Sanusi Mohammed Ahmed (rtd), commended the Nigerian Army for establishing the additional units. The monarchs described the deployments as a “crucial milestone” towards restoring normalcy and improving safety in communities across Zamfara. They also assured the Army of the continued support of traditional institutions, particularly through community mobilisation and information sharing. “We urge residents to provide timely, credible, and actionable intelligence,” Umaru said The army said the new battalions are expected to enhance its ability to respond rapidly to security threats and strengthen operations across their respective areas of responsibility. Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
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