GOC commends troops for incisive, aggressive operations against insurgents
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army Kaduna, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, has commended troops for incisive and aggressive operations against insurgents in 2024, which has led to significant improvement in security in the division’s Area of Responsibility.
Saraso stated this at the annual 2024 West African Social Activities (WASA) held at 2 Battalion, Ribadu Military Cantonment on Saturday in Kaduna.
WASA is an annual event marking the end of training and regimental activities for the year, affording officers, soldiers and their families to congregate in celebration and display of their rich cultures and traditions.
The GOC said the robust and aggressive clearance operations in Niger and Kaduna states led to the release of kidnapped victims, surrender of bandits, and the neutralisation of many of the criminals.
Saraso acknowledged the contributions of other security agencies and stakeholders to the successe recorded in addressing the security challenges in the division.
He recalled that when he assumed office at the beginning of the year, criminal activities were high.
“In the beginning of the year, there was abduction of the Kuriga school children and also the unfortunate bombing of Tudun Biri community which we seriously regretted and took measures.
“But here we are running through this year, most of these incidents have been curtailed, criminal activities have also reduced to a large extent,” he said.
According to him, commuters now freely drive unescorted unlike at the beginning of the year when troops had to escort them along Kaduna-Birnin Gwari road.
“With time, we stopped doing escort, we started picketing the road at intervals. Today, we are only doing patrol along the road, with commuters driving freely. It is a big achievement for us,” he said.
He also said that the Kaduna-Abuja highway and railway line have been free of any security breach during the year.
The GOC, therefore, told the troops that they have every reason to celebrate having spearheaded the return of relative peace within the division.
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff for his support and guidance, and promoting professionalism and regimentation in the Nigerian Army.
Saraso also appreciated the government and people of Kaduna state, the media and other stakeholder including security and law enforcement agencies for their cooperation and support.
In his message to the ceremony, Kaduna state governor, Uba Sani, said he was impressed with the achievements recorded by troops in combating kidnapping, cattle rustling, and banditry.
In the message delivered by Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr James Kanyip, the governor said that the intervention has had profound impact on the security of the state and its surroundings.
He noted that the collaboration with other security agencies through
Operation FANSAN YAMMA, has significantly contributed to the peace and stability of the state.
“The gallantry and courage displayed by your troops in these operations are both
commendable and deeply appreciated.
“As we look forward to 2025, I assure you of my steadfast support, and I encourage you to remain focused and resilient in confronting emerging challenges,” Governor Sani added.
He reminded the troops to uphold highest standard of professionalism, be proactive and remain steadfast to safeguarding the country.
NAN
