Counter-terrorism: Military Solicits Local Support In North West

The theatre commander of Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General Oluyinka Olalekan Soyele, has called for increased local support in the joint effort to combat terrorism and banditry in Nigeria’s North West region.

He made the appeal when he received members of the Nigerian Legion, Zamfara State chapter, led by Aminu Ladan Madan on 27 November 2024 in Gusau, Zamfara State.

In a statement by the coordinator Joint Media Coordination Centre, Lt-Col Abdullahi Abubakar, General Soyele explained that the reorganisation of former operations, namely Operation Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch, into Operation Fansan Yamma, was a move aimed at improving coordination and response to the challenges of terrorism and banditry in both North West and Niger State.

He reported significant progress, particularly in curbing banditry along the Gusau-Funtua highway. He assured attendees that troops are on high alert to fulfil the operation’s mandates, bolstered by local support and intelligence.

During the visit, the chairman of the Nigerian Legion, Aminu Ladan Mada, extended condolences on behalf of the legion for the recent passing of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Taoreed Lagbaja.
He expressed confidence in General Soyele’s leadership, citing his extensive experience and commitment to tackling the current security challenges. Mada pledged the legion’s support for Operation Fansan Yamma and highlighted the importance of synergy between joint forces and locals to foster a safer environment.

Mada thanked the Defence Headquarters for restructuring operations in the North West, which was a necessary step towards ensuring effective collaboration and maximizing resources in the fight against insecurity.