Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in the fight against banditry in Zamfara State, with criminal activities reduced to the barest minimum along major highways and communities.
The Commander, 1 Brigade Nigerian Army, Gusau, Brigadier General Mustapha Jimmoh, disclosed this shortly after the 1 Brigade Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025, held at the Nigerian Army Cantonment in Gusau.
Brigadier General Jimmoh stated that troops are steadily gaining the upper hand against bandits, adding that the Funtua–Gusau–Sokoto highway has become safer and fully motorable for road users.
According to him, banditry has been drastically curtailed across the state, although military operations are ongoing to completely restore lasting peace.
The Brigade Commander urged residents to continue supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with timely and credible information, emphasizing that community cooperation remains critical to defeating criminal elements.
He described WASA as a long-standing tradition of the Nigerian Army designed to promote unity, boost morale, and preserve the cultural heritage of officers and soldiers.
According to him, the 2025 WASA celebration also served as a platform to honour officers and soldiers who distinguished themselves through discipline, punctuality, and outstanding operational performance during the year.


In his remarks, Zamfara State Commissioner for Works Barau Bungudu who conveyed governor Dauda Lawal message expressed satisfaction with the successful hosting of WASA 2025, commended the discipline and professionalism of officers and soldiers of 1 Brigade.
He praised the Nigerian Army under Operation FANSAN YAMMA for its sacrifices in restoring peace and security in Zamfara State and reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to continued collaboration with the military and other security agencies.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Executive Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal, who was represented by the Commissioner for Works, Lawal Barau Bungudu.
Others in attendance were the Theatre Commander, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Warrah Idris, represented by the Maritime Component Commander, Commodore Kabiru U. Rabiu, traditional rulers, heads of sister security agencies, members of academia, and other stakeholders.
AMINU DALHATU