The Nigerian Army has ramped up clearance and internal security operations across parts of Kwara and Niger states as part of renewed efforts to curb banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities in the North-Central region.
The Commander, Headquarters 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, disclosed this on Saturday in Ilorin during the 2025 Nigerian Army Social Activities held at the Sobi Cantonment.
Rume said troops of the brigade have sustained multiple military operations within their Area of Responsibility, targeting criminal hideouts in border communities and forest reserves.
“The year 2025 has seen the 22 Armoured Brigade conduct several clearance operations, including Operations Park Strike IV and V, which covered the Kainji Lake National Park and adjoining communities, as well as Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State and Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas of Kwara State,” he said.
According to him, ongoing efforts also include Operation Fansan Yamma and Operation Harmony in Kwara State, aimed at flushing out bandits and restoring peace to affected communities.
The brigade commander explained that the Army has strengthened its operational footprint by establishing Forward Operating Bases in Patigi and Ilemona, alongside patrol bases in Babasango, Gada and Daban Lema.
“These bases complement our operations in neighbouring states and enhance our response to emerging security threats,” Rume noted.
He said the sustained operations were necessitated by rising threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery and banditry, which continue to challenge security in parts of the North-Central zone.
Rume assured residents that the Army would continue to work closely with other security agencies to maintain peace and stability.
“I want to assure the public of the readiness of the 22 Armoured Brigade to collaborate with all security agencies towards achieving lasting peace and security in our area of responsibility,” he added.
Speaking at the event, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, praised the Nigerian Army for its role in improving security in the state.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Saliu Bello (retd.), the governor described the efforts of the 22 Armoured Brigade as crucial to protecting lives and property.
“I commend the bravery and determination of the Nigerian Army, particularly the 22 Armoured Brigade, in confronting insecurity. Your commitment to restoring peace and order is evident, and it is making a tangible difference in Kwara State,” AbdulRazaq said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military with logistics and cooperation to strengthen ongoing operations.
“The collaboration between the state government and the military has yielded positive results, and I want to reassure you of our unwavering support for this partnership,” the governor added.
AbdulRazaq also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their continued support for the Armed Forces.
The Nigerian Army Social Activities, an annual event, is designed to boost morale, promote unity and cultural integration among officers and soldiers, while also providing an opportunity to review operational achievements.
