The Nigerian Armed Forces have eliminated no fewer than 1,770 terrorists and arrested 3,070 others across five states in the North-West within the last three years, according to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
Delivering the update on Thursday during a military sensitisation campaign in Batsari and Dutsin-Ma Local Government Areas of Katsina State, General Musa—represented by Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Dahiru Abu-Mahawashi—highlighted the significant progress made in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
The exercise, themed ‘Military Diplomacy Campaign to Communities and Cultural Groups Across Nigeria, focuses on Strengthening Community Cooperation for National Security’, underscored the importance of collaborative efforts.
Brigadier General Abu-Mahawashi detailed that the military also seized over 1,000 assorted weapons and 12,000 rounds of ammunition from the criminals during this period. He further stated that troops rescued more than 2,515 victims during various operations spanning Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States.
“The army actively confronts the security challenges, and significant successes have been recorded not only in the North-West but nationwide,” he affirmed. “This fight for peace demands our collective participation. Report suspicious activities, protect each other, and guide your youths.”
He emphasized the crucial role of unity and communication in fostering peace. “Peace thrives in unity, not silence. Let us speak, listen, and forgive, for healing requires forgiveness. Together, we possess greater strength; together, we can silence violence with the voice of peace.”
The Defence Chief further explained that these achievements prompted the one-day sensitization program for communities within Batsari and Dutsin-Ma Local Government Areas.
General Musa reassured residents of the army’s ongoing efforts to re-strategize and restore peace to all frontline communities.
During the exercise, community members shared that peace had returned to some areas, particularly in the Batsari Local Government Area, due to recent dialogues with repentant criminals. However, Mallam Lawal Rabi’u, a resident, expressed concern about persistent attacks from bandits operating in neighboring LGAs where such dialogues had not occurred.
● Report by Emergencydigest.com
