Army Chief orders troops to intensify offensive against criminals in South West

By Philip Nwosu

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops operating within the 2 Division Area of Responsibility (AOR) to intensify offensive operations and decisively flush out all criminal elements threatening peace and security in the area.

The directive was given yesterday, during his maiden visit to the 2 Division Area of Responsibility, where he addressed officers and soldiers at Odogbo Barracks, Ibadan, Oyo State commending the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in combating banditry, kidnapping and other forms of criminality across the division’s area of responsibility.

General Shaibu noted that the Army Headquarters had been adequately briefed on ongoing operations and the notable successes recorded by the troops, adding that, “I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded, I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum. Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

The Army Chief also reassured personnel of his commitment to improving their welfare, disclosing that approvals had been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks. He stressed that troop morale remains a critical factor in achieving operational success and remains a key component of his command philosophy.

Lieutenant General Shaibu further enjoined troops to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to promote a conducive living and operational environment.

The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements and enhance the welfare and operational effectiveness of its personnel in line with national security objectives.