The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops under the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division to step up offensive operations aimed at flushing out criminal elements across the South-West region.
Shaibu gave the order on Monday during his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division Area of Responsibility at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, Oyo State.
While addressing officers and soldiers, the Army Chief praised their commitment and operational achievements in tackling banditry, kidnapping, and other security threats within the zone.
“I have been fully briefed on your activities and the successes you have recorded so far,” Shaibu said.
“I commend your resilience and professionalism. You must sustain the tempo and go after kidnappers and other criminals wherever they may be—whether in forests, bushes, or their hideouts—until these crimes are reduced to the barest minimum.”
He assured the troops of the Army leadership’s commitment to their welfare, noting that approvals had been secured for the renovation of existing accommodation as well as the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.
According to him, improving living conditions for soldiers is essential to maintaining morale and enhancing operational effectiveness.
“Troop welfare remains a priority because morale is critical to success in operations,” Shaibu stated, urging personnel to properly maintain facilities to ensure a conducive working and living environment.
The visit, he said, reflects the Nigerian Army’s resolve to strengthen security operations while also prioritising the welfare of personnel deployed in demanding and high-risk environments.
