The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has carried out an assessment visit to Tidibale Community in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of the area.
The visit, which formed part of the GOC’s first official engagements, was aimed at assessing the security situation following the safe return of residents who were previously displaced due to threats posed by bandits.
In a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Major General Koughna said the visit was intended to reassure residents of the Army’s resolve to protect communities and restore normalcy.
Addressing the residents, the GOC emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring that the people of Tidibale can go about their daily activities, particularly farming, without fear. He disclosed that troops have been stationed within the community to maintain a strong security presence and remain on high alert to respond swiftly to any threats or emergencies.
Major General Koughna assured the community that no part of Tidibale would be allowed to fall under the control of bandit groups, stressing that the Army will sustain its operations to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the area.
He further called on residents to remain vigilant and promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to security agencies, noting that effective collaboration between the military and the local population is critical to strengthening peace and security.
Speaking on behalf of the Tidibale Community, Sarkin Arewa, Alhaji Ibrahim, expressed profound gratitude to the GOC for the timely visit, particularly in light of the prevailing security challenges. He noted that the visit had renewed the community’s hope and confidence, while appreciating the Nigerian Army’s efforts in securing the area and enabling residents to safely return to their homes and livelihoods.
Earlier, upon arrival at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Isa, the GOC received a detailed operational briefing from the Commanding Officer, 26 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha, which provided critical insights into the current security situation and ongoing operations within the area of responsibility.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed that it remains resolute in its mission to protect lives and property, while working closely with local communities to achieve lasting peace and security across the North West region.
