Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has called for intensified military support and stronger collaboration to address insecurity in the state and across the North-West region
He stated this when received the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede on a courtesy visit at the Government House in Gusau.
Governor Lawal described the CDS visit as timely and a clear demonstration of the Armed Forces’ commitment to addressing the security challenges confronting Zamfara and the wider North-West region.
He noted that the presence of the military high command would serve as a strong deterrent to criminal elements operating within and around the state.
Governor Dauda Lawal stressed that, improving security at the community level remains critical, insisting that restoring safety in Zamfara would significantly reduce insecurity across the region.
Governor Lawal recounted a recent encounter with residents of Wanzamai village, who blocked his convoy to express their concerns over persistent attacks by bandits following the withdrawal of security personnel from the area.
According to him, the emotional appeal from women and children highlighted the urgent need for renewed military presence and protection in vulnerable communities.
He maintained that criminal groups are not stronger than Nigeria’s security forces, but emphasized the need for strategic coordination, adequate logistics, and sustained operational support to defeat them.
The Governor also acknowledged the challenges faced by security personnel, pledging continued support from the state government to complement federal efforts.
He appealed to the Chief of Defence Staff to provide additional assistance to field commanders, including the Theatre and Brigade Commanders, to enhance their effectiveness in ongoing operations.
Governor Lawal reiterated that security remains the foundation for meaningful development, noting that, the largely agrarian population of Zamfara only seeks a safe environment to farm and sustain their livelihoods.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ongoing support to the Armed Forces, while calling for increased intervention to strengthen security at the grassroots level.
Ealier, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede said the visi was part of efforts to assess ongoing military operations under Operation Fansan Yamma and engage with stakeholders on improving security in the region.
The Defence Chief explained that, he had reviewed operational activities on ground, adding that, several challenges identified by troops had already been addressed, while others were being carefully considered for further action.
“I want to particularly thank Your Excellency for the support you have rendered to Operation Fansan Yamma. It is quite uncommon,” he said, adding that such collaboration significantly boosts the morale and effectiveness of troops in the field.
He also expressed appreciation to the people of Zamfara State for their cooperation with security forces, noting that their support has created a conducive environment for military operations.
General Oluyede stressed that, addressing insecurity requires collective responsibility, emphasizing that Nigeria’s security challenges are surmountable if all stakeholders work together.
The CDS further described his visit as a mark of respect and recognition of the Governor’s leadership, noting that, it was important to engage directly with the state government in the fight against insecurity.
He expressed optimism that with sustained collaboration between the military, government, and citizens, banditry and other criminal activities in Zamfara and the wider North-West region would be effectively curtailed.
COV/AMINU DALHATU
