Nigerian Army Assures Kwara, South-West of Strengthened Military Presence Against Bandits, Terrorists
…As GOC 2 Division urges responsible journalism, vows improved information sharing
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, has reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property within its area of responsibility, assuring residents of Kwara State and the wider South-West of their safety.
Major General Nnebeife gave the assurance during a media parley with journalists held at the Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo, Ibadan.
“The Nigerian Army under my command remains fully committed to safeguarding our area of responsibility against any external threats. Nigerians living within this division should be rest assured of their safety and continued protection,” the GOC said.
Describing the media as a key stakeholder in nation-building, Nnebeife emphasized the importance of responsible journalism, noting that accurate and balanced reporting helps to strengthen public trust in the Armed Forces and other national institutions.
“The media plays a very critical role in nation-building. Balanced and factual reportage is essential in building public confidence in the Armed Forces and other security agencies,” he stated.
Speaking on the security situation in Kwara State, the Army commander disclosed that the Division plans to intensify military operations in the state after the end-of-year festivities to further suppress criminal activities.
“We are committed to restoring peace in Kwara State. After the end-of-the-year activities, our operations will be intensified to ensure criminals have no hiding place,” he said.
Major General Nnebeife explained that terrorists and bandits thrive on fear but assured residents that such tactics would not prevail.
“These criminal elements rely on fear to dominate communities, but we will not allow that to succeed,” he added.
He further revealed that the Nigerian Army has recorded significant successes in disrupting bandit activities across Kwara State and other parts of the North-West, including recent arrests made in Ondo State.
Addressing concerns about information flow between the military and the public, the GOC acknowledged existing challenges but promised improved engagement and protection of sources.
“We recognize the challenges in information sharing, but we are working to improve communication with the public while ensuring the protection of our sources,” he assured.
Major General Nnebeife also reiterated the Army’s commitment to inter-agency collaboration, stressing that security situations are constantly reviewed to enable prompt and effective responses.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to work closely with other security agencies and regularly assess security developments to ensure timely and effective action,” he said.
