Presidency, Military Intensify Offensive Against Banditry in Kwara

The Presidency has stepped up efforts to curb banditry and restore security in parts of Kwara State, strengthening collaboration with the military and local authorities following growing concerns over threats to communities.

Senior special assistant to the President on Community Engagement( north central ), Dr. Abiodun Essiet, spearheaded the initiative during a three-day working visit to the state, where she held strategic consultations with local government officials and military commanders.

The move comes amid security concerns in Gbugbu town and neighbouring communities in Edu and Patigi Local Government Areas, where local authorities have raised alarm over threats affecting residents and economic activities.

During the visit, the executive chairman of Edu Local Government Area and the councillor representing Gbugbu Ward met with Dr. Essiet, seeking stronger federal intervention and closer coordination with security agencies to address the situation.

In response, Dr. Essiet led a delegation to the headquarters of the 22 Armoured Brigade, host of the Theatre Command of Operation Savannah Shield, a joint military operation established to tackle banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping in Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.

At the military facility, the delegation held extensive discussions with the Theatre Commander of Operation Savannah Shield, Maj. Gen. Yakub Yahaya, and the Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brig. Gen. N. N. Rume, focusing on strengthening security operations and improving collaboration with affected communities.

Dr. Essiet also presented feedback from the Citizens’ Assembly held in Omu-Aran, Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents highlighted their security concerns and called for sustained government and military action to protect lives and property.

The engagements underscored renewed coordination between the Presidency, military authorities, and local stakeholders, as part of ongoing efforts to contain insecurity and restore normalcy in affected communities.

Operation Savannah Shield is expected to play a central role in reinforcing military presence and enhancing security responses across vulnerable areas of Kwara State and surrounding regions.