COAS Shuaibu Operationalises 28 Armoured Brigade in Kebbi, Assures Residents of Improved Security

 COAS Shuaibu Operationalises 28 Armoured Brigade in Kebbi, Assures Residents of Improved Security

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has operationalised the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, alongside the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and protect vulnerable communities in Kebbi State.

The Nigerian Army said the development is aimed at expanding its operational presence, improving response times and enhancing command and control in the North-West region.

Representing the COAS at the operationalisation ceremony, 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, said the establishment of the formations was in line with the Army's ongoing efforts to optimise its force structure and strengthen its capacity to respond to emerging security threats.

Koughna charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to ensure that the new formation provides effective fire support capabilities and contributes meaningfully to security operations within the Division's area of responsibility.

He said the Brigade would play a significant role in ongoing efforts to address threats posed by criminal elements and other security challenges confronting communities across Kebbi State.

The GOC stressed the need for discipline, tactical focus and effective collaboration among security agencies and other stakeholders, noting that sustainable peace could only be achieved through coordinated efforts.

He also urged personnel of the newly operationalised formations to maintain high standards of professionalism and strictly adhere to the Rules of Engagement while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.

Koughna further directed the troops to prioritise the protection of law-abiding citizens and operate within the framework of the law in their engagements with communities.

During his visit, the GOC commiserated with residents of Jandutse community over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack.

He assured the community of increased military presence and intensified security efforts aimed at safeguarding residents and preventing further attacks.

The residents expressed appreciation to the GOC for the Army's continued efforts to improve security in Jandutse and other communities across Kebbi State.

The Nigerian Army said the operationalisation of the new formations is expected to further strengthen its capacity to respond swiftly to security threats and support ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the state.