The Nigerian Army has announced plans to establish a new battalion in Malumfashi local government area of Katsina State as part of efforts to curb rising banditry in the region.
The decision followed an engagement between Katsina lawmakers at the National Assembly and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, as well as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, in Abuja.
In a joint press statement issued after the meeting, the lawmakers expressed concern over the worsening insecurity in Katsina and called for urgent Federal Government intervention.
They urged President Bola Tinubu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, to authorise the deployment of additional military assets and resources to the state.
While commending the Federal Government for its current security commitments, the lawmakers stressed that the scale of attacks in Katsina demanded greater reinforcement.
They also lauded Governor Dikko Radda for what they described as “proactive and unwavering efforts” in addressing the insecurity bedevilling the state.
“On behalf of our constituents, we commend the strides the governor is making in combating banditry, kidnapping and other violent attacks that have plagued our communities.
“We pledge our continued support and call for sustained coordination among security agencies, community leaders, and stakeholders to restore peace and safety in Katsina State,” the lawmakers said.
In a statement signed by the chairman, Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, the legislators also extended condolences to families of victims of recent attacks, particularly the massacre at Gidan Mantau in Malumfashi where dozens were killed.
In his response, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluyede, assured the delegation of the Army’s commitment, revealing that a full battalion would be established in Malumfashi to strengthen military presence and secure vulnerable communities across the axis.
