By Isiaka Mustapha, Editor-in-Chief, People’s Security Monitor

The Nigerian Army has activated the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security operations and enhance military response to emerging threats across Kebbi State and the wider North West region.

The initiative also saw the operationalisation of the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, further boosting the Army’s combat capabilities in the region.

Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, was represented at the ceremony by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna.

Speaking during the activation, Major General Koughna said the establishment of the new formations was aimed at expanding the Army’s operational footprint, strengthening command and control structures and improving the effectiveness of military operations against criminal elements.

He noted that the additional formations would significantly reduce response times to security incidents, enhance intelligence driven operations and provide greater protection for vulnerable communities affected by banditry and other forms of criminality.

The GOC charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Armoured Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to effectively deploy the formation’s personnel and fire support assets in support of ongoing operations across Kebbi State.

According to him, sustained success in the fight against insecurity requires discipline, professionalism, tactical efficiency and close collaboration among security agencies and relevant stakeholders.

He urged troops to remain committed to their constitutional responsibilities, adhere strictly to the Rules of Engagement and uphold the rights of law abiding citizens while carrying out military operations.

During his visit, Major General Koughna also sympathised with residents of Jandutse community following the recent killing of a resident during a bandit attack. He assured community leaders and residents that the Army would intensify security operations and maintain a stronger presence in vulnerable areas to deter further attacks.

Residents of the community expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Army for its continued efforts to restore peace and improve security across the state.

The Army said the activation of the new brigade, tank battalion and artillery regiment forms part of a broader strategy to optimise its force structure, enhance operational effectiveness and strengthen ongoing efforts to combat banditry, terrorism and other security threats in the North West.