By Jibrin Danjuma
The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed troops of the Nigerian Army to eliminate the notorious bandit leader, Bello Turji, within one month to ensure lasting peace in Zamfara State.
General Oluyede issued this directive while addressing troops at the One Brigade, Nigerian Army Headquarters in Gusau, Zamfara State.
He commended the soldiers for their ongoing efforts in tackling banditry and criminal activities in the region.
“In the next one month, I don’t want to hear the name Bello Turji again,” he stated firmly. “We will continue pursuing him because he is on the run.”
General Oluyede urged the troops to sustain their operations by neutralizing all bandits, emphasizing that peace and security are essential for the state’s development and economic growth.
According to him, without security, attracting investors and achieving sustainable progress would be impossible.
He further reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting the country and its citizens. “It is our cardinal responsibility to ensure Nigeria’s safety. We must work together through commitment and sacrifice,” he said.
General Oluyede assured the troops that the Army would continue investing in their welfare, including the procurement of vehicles, weapons, and other essential resources to enhance their operational effectiveness.
Lieutenant General Oluyede also announced plans to deploy additional weapons and logistical support to ensure the total eradication of bandit activities.
He also directed the issuance of new military uniforms to the troops, underscoring the importance of proper equipment in maintaining morale and operational efficiency.
On the issue of housing, General Oluyede encouraged officers to apply for the Affordable Housing Scheme, which allows them to make small payments before retirement to secure accommodation for the future.
“You must continue to carry out your duties professionally to make Nigeria a safer and better place to live. If we fail to do this, our children will have no place to call home,” he warned.
The COAS also visited the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma where he appreciated the officers and soldiers of Operation Fansan Yamma for their relentless fight against criminal elements in the North West.
“My visit to Zamfara State is to see my officers and soldiers in Operation Fansan Yamma and to personally appreciate their efforts in combating criminality across the North West region,”
General Oluyede highlighted the significant reduction in criminal activities and the successful elimination of notorious bandits like Sama’ila Boka, among others.
“In the last two or three months, we have made tremendous progress in eliminating criminal elements. For instance, you have not heard anything about Lakurawa in the last three months because our soldiers are actively pursuing them from one location to another.”
His visit underscores the Army’s commitment to intensifying operations against banditry and ensuring long-term peace in the region.
