COAS orders troops to step up offensive against criminals in 2 Division area

By Zainab Uzomah

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has instructed troops under the 2 Division to intensify offensive operations and clear out criminal groups operating across the division’s area of responsibility.

In a statement issued on 22 December by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the Army chief delivered the directive during his maiden operational visit to Odugbo Barracks in Ibadan on Monday.

General Shaibu praised soldiers for what he described as their resilience, professionalism and effectiveness in tackling banditry, kidnapping and other security threats in the region. He said he had received detailed briefings on recent operations and the “remarkable successes” recorded.

“I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum,” he said. “Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are — in the bushes, forests or hideouts — and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

The Army chief also reaffirmed his commitment to improving troop welfare, saying approval had been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.

He noted that troop morale was central to operational success and urged personnel to maintain their facilities to ensure a conducive living and working environment.