From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has expressed relief and commendation for the Nigerian military following a series of successful operations against security threats in the North West region.
The president’s remarks came after troops of Operation Hadarin Daji killed a notorious bandit leader, Halilu Sububu, who had been terrorising citizens in Zamfara and Sokoto states.
Additionally, another terrorist, Sani Wala Burki, was killed in a joint operation in Katsina, while 13 kidnapped students were rescued from a terrorist enclave in Kaduna.
According to a statement issued by Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the operations align with Tinubu’s directive to service chiefs to remain in the region until stability was restored.
He praised the military’s high command, intelligence agencies, and troops for their dedication and effective collaboration, which had led to the significant achievements.
The president reassured the security agencies of his ongoing support in their mission to ensure the safety and security of the nation, urging them to maintain their efforts until all the threats were eliminated.
Meanwhile Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, has said that President Tinubu’s directive for him to relocate to the Command and Control Centre to Sokoto was yielding fruits.
He said he and the service chiefs had been working tirelessly to ensure that the president’s commitment to securing the region was fulfilled, adding that the elimination of Halilu Sububu represented a major breakthrough in this mission.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is fulfilling his promise to the people of the North West. The elimination of this notorious bandit kingpin is a proof that we are making significant progress,” Dr. Matawalle stated.
The Minister expressed his gratitude to the Nigerian Army and all security agencies involved in the operation, noting that their determination and dedication were key to the ongoing success. He further assured that the fight to rid the region of banditry was far from over, but the government remained resolute.
“We will not rest until every corner of the North West is free from the threat of banditry. The military, under the directive of President Tinubu, is now on a fight-to-finish mission, and we will continue to intensify our operations,” Dr. Matawalle said.
The success of the military operations is being widely celebrated by citizens of zone especially Zamfara, Katsina and Sokoto states. This has brought a sense of relief to communities that have long suffered under the threat of banditry. Farmers, traders, and business people, who have been among the worst hit, have expressed their appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Dr. Matawalle, and the Nigerian military for their efforts.
“The joy and relief in these communities are palpable. This victory is a turning point, and it sends a strong message to the likes of Bello Turji and those who seek to destabilise our region. They will be brought to justice,” Dr. Matawalle assured.