MINISTER OF STATE FOR DEFENCE ISSUES STRONG DIRECTIVE TO TROOPS TO ERADICATE BANDITS

Emmanuel Daudu

In a significant development, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Muhammad Bello Matawalle, MON, has made a critical visit to the 8 Division Headquarters in Sokoto State, reinforcing the Federal Government’s determination to eradicate banditry and terrorism in the region.

Accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, OFR; Chief of Defence Intelligence, Major General Emmanuel Undiandeye; and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Brigadier General IA Ajose, along with other senior military officers, Dr. Matawalle’s visit underscored a renewed urgency in the ongoing military operations under Operation Hadarin Daji.

Dr. Matawalle’s visit aimed to assess and enhance the strategies currently employed by the 8 Division.

During a briefing with the troops, he delivered a powerful charge, reflecting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s, GCFR, directive for the complete elimination of banditry in the Northwest.

“The security of our nation is paramount and the President has given a clear mandate that the bandits and terrorists threatening our peace must be flushed out.” Matawalle said

In a spirited address, he commended the troops for their and resilience in tackling the persistent security challenges. Dr. Matawalle emphasized that the government’s commitment to supporting the troops remains unwavering. “I am here today to reaffirm the Federal Government’s support and to urge you to remain relentless in your efforts,” he urged the soldiers. “Your bravery and dedication are the backbone of our national security.”

Reiterating the government’s full backing, he highlighted the critical role of military leadership in the ongoing operations, stating, “The Chief of Defence Staff and the Service Chiefs stand with you, providing the necessary resources and strategic guidance. We expect nothing less than total success in this operation.”

During the visit, Dr. Matawalle reviewed the operational strategies and discussed avenues to bolster the effectiveness of the military’s ongoing efforts.

He reassured the troops that the government would continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the ultimate success of Operation Hadarin Daji. “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has no doubt in your ability to deliver on this mission. Together, we will restore peace to our land and secure a brighter future for all Nigerians,” he added.

Dr. Matawalle also made a stop at the 8 Div Medical Facilities and Hospital in Giginya Barracks, Sokoto, where he promised to support the facility with necessary equipment, a move aimed at boosting the morale of the troops and patients alike.