The Nigerian Army has operationalised the newly established 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, alongside the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and protect vulnerable communities across Kebbi State.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, said the new formations would expand the Army’s operational footprint and improve its capacity to respond rapidly to security threats.
According to the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the establishment of the formations is in line with the Army’s ongoing efforts to optimise its force structure, strengthen command and control, and enhance operational effectiveness across the North-West.
Major General Koughna charged the Acting Commander of 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to ensure that the formation provides essential fire-support capabilities and contributes effectively to ongoing security operations in Kebbi State.
He urged the troops to maintain discipline, professionalism and tactical focus while strictly adhering to the Rules of Engagement and protecting law-abiding citizens.
The GOC also called for stronger collaboration among security agencies and other stakeholders, stressing that lasting peace requires coordinated efforts to address criminal activities and other security challenges.
During his engagement with residents of Jandutse community, Koughna commiserated with the people over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack and assured them of increased military presence to enhance their safety.
The residents expressed appreciation to the GOC for the Army’s continued efforts to improve security in Jandutse and across Kebbi State.
