Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, on Friday urged the Nigerian military to intensify efforts to eliminate bandits threatening lives and property across the state.
Idris made the call during an unscheduled visit to troops at their camp in Yauri, where he commended the soldiers for their gallantry, courage and commitment to duty.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary support and enabling environment for security agencies to operate effectively.
He described security as a collective responsibility and called on state governments to remain active partners in supporting the Federal Government to secure vulnerable communities and create conditions that would enable farmers to return safely to their farms.
“The issue of security is the responsibility of all. State governments must be active stakeholders in support of the Federal Government to secure volatile areas, making them safe to allow farmers to go back and cultivate their farms.
“Bandits are trying to embarrass us. They are coming to attack our people. The security agencies must wipe away these bandits, and the capability of the military should come to bear.
“Nigeria’s military has the professional ability, as it has exhibited in peacekeeping operations in other parts of the world. I have confidence in you,” Idris said.
The governor commended the Chief of Army Staff for deploying additional troops to Kebbi to strengthen operations against banditry.
He said the deployment responded to the state government’s request for an increased military presence in areas affected by insecurity.
“I’m happy about your performance. The Chief of Army Staff, supported by the military hierarchy, has answered our prayers by sending you here to Kebbi.
“Your presence will complement the operations of other security services,” he said.
Idris said the Yauri-Shanga-Ngaski axis had experienced incursions by bandits from neighbouring Niger, Zamfara and Kwara states.
He commended other security agencies operating in the area, saying the arrival of additional troops would further strengthen their efforts and boost their morale.
“I’m impressed by your number. I thank the Chief of Army Staff for finding Kebbi worthy to send additional troops to the state,” the governor said.
Earlier, Idris paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Yauri, Dr Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, at his palace.
He later commissioned a new Jumu’a Mosque in the Tudun-Gwamna area of Yauri, where he joined other worshippers for Friday prayers.
The Emir of Yauri expressed appreciation to the governor for his continued support, concern and commitment to the people of the Yauri Emirate.
