A civil society organisation, Citizens for Peace and Unity, has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for their successful expulsion of the Lakurawa terrorists from Nigerian territory, describing the operation as a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism.
Speaking during a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the group’s Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ishaq Yusuf, highlighted the military’s recent achievements in combating terrorism, restoring peace in conflict zones, and boosting crude oil production.
Citing Senator Adamu Aliero, who represents Kebbi Central, Yusuf noted that the military’s operation was critical to preventing the spread of terrorism from the North-East to the North-West
“Within the week, the Senator representing Kebbi Central, Adamu Aliero, came out to say the military has pursued Lakurawa terrorists to the Niger Republic,” Yusuf stated.
Quoting the senator, he added: “Do you know that they were bold enough to hang around and kept threatening the villagers until our military arrived on Tuesday (November 12) and pursued them as they ran into the Niger Republic?”
Yusuf described the operation as a testament to the military’s resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity. He urged citizens to rally behind the Armed Forces as they continue their efforts to secure the nation.
The group also lauded Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo for acknowledging the military’s role in restoring peace to Bagana, a community once plagued by ethnic clashes and farmer-herder conflicts.
Bagana, previously known as the commercial hub of Omala Local Government Area, has been transformed from a battleground into a more peaceful community thanks to the Armed Forces‘ efforts.
“Our military has played a very significant role in helping to restore peace in the area,” Yusuf said, adding that the military’s successes were not limited to security but extended to economic gains.
According to Yusuf, ongoing military operations have significantly increased Nigeria’s daily crude oil production from 1.23 million barrels to 1.8 million as of October 2024.
He attributed this increase to enhanced security in oil-producing regions and stressed its positive implications for the national economy.
“The military is playing their role very much to make more resources available. We hope political leaders will do theirs,” Yusuf remarked.
He further emphasised the importance of public support for the military, stating, “Testimonials coming from eminent citizens on the successes by our Armed Forces is an encouragement to Nigerians that light is at the end of the tunnel.
We commend Gov Ododo and Senator Aliero. Their voice is strong, encouraging our troops to believe that their actions yield fruits.”
Yusuf concluded by urging Nigerians to unite in support of the Armed Forces. “The citizens must collect our country back from non-state actors. We have a big role to play. This is not the time to keep quiet,” he said.
The Citizens for Peace and Unity also used the occasion to commend the leadership of the Armed Forces under General Chris Musa, calling for continued encouragement and support for the troops. “Their sacrifices must not be in vain,” Yusuf said.
