By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General W.B. Idris, has pledged support for a peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiative proposed by the Association of Retired Members of the Nigerian Armed Forces (REMNAF), Zamfara State Chapter.

The commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the association’s executive members, led by its Chairman, Major Adamu Maikano (Rtd), to the Theatre Headquarters in Gusau on July 24, 2026.

During the meeting, Major Maikano outlined plans for a four-day mediation and conflict resolution accreditation programme for retired military personnel in Zamfara State. He explained that the training is intended to equip veterans with practical skills in mediation, negotiation, alternative dispute resolution and peacebuilding, enabling them to continue contributing meaningfully to peace and stability within their communities.

He noted that the initiative seeks to harness the vast experience of retired military personnel in addressing communal conflicts and promoting peaceful coexistence across the state. He also appealed to the Theatre Headquarters for support in the areas of logistics, accommodation, venue provision and welfare for facilitators participating in the programme.

Responding, Major General Idris commended REMNAF for its sustained commitment to national development and community service even after retirement from active military duty.

The Theatre Commander described retired military personnel as valuable stakeholders in the nation’s security architecture, noting that their experience, discipline and understanding of security issues make them indispensable partners in peacebuilding and public sensitisation efforts.

He stressed that military operations alone cannot completely eliminate insecurity, emphasising the need for greater collaboration among security agencies, community leaders, veterans and other critical stakeholders.

According to him, intelligence gathering, community engagement and public support remain essential components of successful security operations, particularly in addressing the complex security challenges facing the North-West region.

Major General Idris further praised the proposed training programme, describing it as a timely initiative capable of strengthening local conflict-resolution mechanisms and promoting sustainable peace in communities affected by insecurity.

He assured the association of the Theatre’s support towards the successful implementation of the programme and disclosed that officers and soldiers of Operation FANSAN YAMMA would also participate in the training to enhance their understanding of non-kinetic approaches to conflict management.

The meeting underscored the Theatre Command’s recognition of retired military personnel as strategic partners in promoting peace, security and national cohesion.

It also highlighted the importance of leveraging the wealth of knowledge and experience possessed by veterans to complement ongoing military operations through mediation, community outreach, peace advocacy and support for security initiatives.

The visit concluded with a guided tour of the Theatre’s Wall of Heroes, where members of the delegation were briefed on the sacrifices made by personnel of Operation FANSAN YAMMA who paid the ultimate price in the service of the nation since the establishment of the Theatre in 2024.

The delegation also observed a moment of reflection in honour of the fallen heroes whose names have been permanently inscribed on the monument in recognition of their courage, dedication and sacrifice in defence of Nigeria.