The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to enhancing security in Niger State through increased troop deployment and close collaboration with traditional institutions and other stakeholders.
The pledge was contained in a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, following a courtesy visit by the Army Chief to the Etsu Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Alhaji Dr Yahaya Abubakar, at his palace in Bida.
Lieutenant General Shaibu said the visit aimed to assess ongoing military operations in the state, identify gaps, and determine areas requiring additional troops and operational support. He emphasised the importance of intelligence-driven operations, including community-based and human intelligence, and described traditional rulers as “critical partners” in providing timely information to aid military efforts.
The statement added that the Army plans to leverage modern surveillance and operational technologies to enhance security strategies, improve situational awareness, and strengthen response capabilities.
Commending the Etsu Nupe for his consistent support, the Army Chief described traditional institutions as “indispensable allies in the fight against insecurity.”
In response, Abubakar, assured continued cooperation from traditional rulers, including intelligence sharing and prayers for the success of military operations.
He also praised the professionalism and community engagement of Nigerian Army personnel deployed in the Nupe Kingdom.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, pledging to work closely with state governments, traditional institutions, stakeholders, and local communities to restore and sustain peace across the country.
