The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reacted to the Niger State House of Assembly alleged that the Nigerian Army Military Training Area in Kotangora LGA of the state has been taken over by bandits, reassuring the public that the military training area in Niger State remains secure.
Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba in a press statement on Wednesday stated that, this allegation is incorrect and in accurate with realities on the ground.
General Buba said, while, it is understanding that troops have recorded encounters with terrorists in the course of operating in the general area, "No inch of the training area has been ceded to the terrorist".
"Indeed, troops constantly eliminate the threat posed by terrorist crossing the vast area. Our clearance operations in the area have denied the terrorist freedom of action."he stressed
General Buba also clarified that the ongoing operations, particularly in Niger State, is against terrorist. It is therefore erroneous for such threats to be described in any other form other than terrorist.
"Overall, the armed forces is working closely with the Niger State Government to ensure improved security in the state and for the citizens. Our troops are not relenting at ensure total destruction of these terrorists wherever they maybe hiding." he said
Reports has it that the U.S. Department of State's 2021 Country Reports on Terrorism highlights the security challenges faced by Niger . Additionally, there have been reports of military takeovers in Niger, which have raised concerns about regional stability and security.
