UBA SANI APPEALS TO NIGERIAN ARMY TO EXPAND SECURITY COVERAGE TO OTHER HOTSPOTS IN KADUNA 29-09-23
By Sadiq Aminu Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State has appealed to the Nigerian Army to expand the activities of Operation Safe Heaven in Southern Kaduna General areas due to the security challanges around Zangon Kataf, Kaura, Kauru and Sanga local governments.
He made the plea when he received the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa on a courtesy visit at government house Kaduna.
Governor Uba Sani said such expansion would go along way in containing threats and consolidating the ongoing efforts in those areas.
He stated that, similar measures is required in Birnin Gwari General areas to restrict bandits and terrorist from using Kudaru, Kuyanbana and Kamuku Forest as their refuge or hideout.
Senator Sani stressed that, such operation would further constrict corridors connecting Birnin Gwari to neighbouring states like Zamfara, Niger and Katsina states from use by the bandits.
According to him, Kaduna State government has step up efforts toward inter state collaboration in the fight against banditry and terrorism, adding that, he has been in constant touch with his neighbouring governors and strategies are being fine-tuned to deny criminal elements hidden in any states of North West and North Central.
Governor Uba Sani also renewed his appealed to the Chief of Defence Staff to prolong stayed of the Special forces in the ongoing campaigns against banditry and terrorism in the state perticularly in Southern Kaduna General areas and Birning Gwari areas.
“From our checks, you are one of the most successful Theater Commanders. You left an indelible mark in that arena. You led with brilliance, energy, devotion and patriotism. It is no wonder you are still a reference point in military leadership. During your tour of duty in the North East, you adopted the kinetic and non-kinetic approaches and recorded huge successes”
“We also wish to appreciate your efforts in the deployment of troops of the 404 Special Forces Brigade to Kaduna State last year, after the attack on the Kaduna-bound train. The Special Forces greatly complemented Operation Whirl Punch under the leadership of Major General Lagbaja, who was at that time the GOC of 1 Division”
“We must also acknowledge, on a sad note, the loss of some of these troops, notably Major SA Oni, an industrious officer of the highest quality, who, alongside several other brave personnel, paid the ultimate price during an operation in a neighbouring state last month. I conveyed my condolences at this devastating loss through our Commissioner overseeing Internal Security. We have remained in prayers to Almighty God for the repose of their souls”
He assured the Chief of Defence Staff of his commitment to sustain the cordial relationship.
In a remark, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa said Nigerian Army is currently expanding it ways of operation to cover all the gaps identified for smooth operation.
General Musa pointed out that, in the last three weeks he had meeting with all the task force Commanders and Theatre Commanders to reassess their operation to make it more robust and result oriented.
“We are changing our mode of operation both kinetic and non kinetic approach ”
The Chief of Defence Staff assured governor Uba Sani that, the Nigerian Armed forces would continue to give him all the necessary support required to achieve lasting peace in the state.
General Christopher Musa emphasized that, the issue of security required every one support and contribution to address the menace.