The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of Joint Task Force North Central (JTF-NC) Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD (OPSS) to intensify ongoing operations against kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening peace and security across the North Central region.
The charge was given on Thursday during the COAS’ maiden operational visit to the Headquarters of JTF North Central OPSS at Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, Kwara State.
In a statement issued by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Lieutenant General Waidi reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that troops must sustain the operational momentum needed to decisively deny criminal elements freedom of action within the Joint Operations Area.
He stated that the Army remains resolute in its constitutional responsibility of protecting innocent citizens and preventing criminal groups from infiltrating communities or undermining national security.
The COAS assured troops that necessary combat enablers and operational resources were being deployed to strengthen ongoing clearance operations and dismantle criminal hideouts across Kwara and Niger States.
Lieutenant General Waidi also reiterated his commitment to the welfare of troops and their families, noting that improved welfare remains vital to maintaining high morale, operational effectiveness, and combat readiness.
He urged personnel to remain disciplined, professional, and loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically elected government.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North Central) Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, Major General Y. Yahaya, commended the COAS for his strategic leadership and sustained support towards improving the operational capacity of the Joint Task Force.
Major General Yahaya assured the Army Chief that troops under the operation would remain committed and steadfast in carrying out their mandate of restoring lasting peace and stability within the North Central region.
