Army Chief Orders Offensive Against Criminals In South-West

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of 2 Division to intensify offensive operations and decisively flush out all criminal elements operating within its area of responsibility.

The COAS gave the directive on Monday, while addressing officers and soldiers at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, Oyo State capital, during his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division.

Lt.-Gen. Shaibu, in a statement by the Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in confronting banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the area.

“I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded. I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum.

“Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts, and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum,” Shaibu charged.

The COAS also reaffirmed his commitment to improving troops’ welfare, disclosing that approvals have been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.

The army chief emphasised that troops’ morale remains critical to operational success, stressing that welfare will continue to be a top priority of his command philosophy.

He further enjoined troops to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment.