Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has directed the military to intensify ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-West following the recent wave of terrorist attacks in Zamfara State.
Matawalle gave the directive while condoling with victims of the attacks, particularly residents of Bungudu Local Government Area and other affected communities.
The minister’s position was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Ahmad Dan-Wudil.
The statement said Matawalle reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to restoring peace and improving security across the region despite the recent escalation of terrorist attacks.
He directed the leadership of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to sustain the ongoing offensive against terrorists in collaboration with other security agencies operating in the affected areas.
The minister also instructed Operation FANSAN YAMMA and other military formations involved in counter-terrorism operations across Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna states to intensify their operations using every lawful measure to eliminate terrorist activities through targeted military actions.
He further appealed to members of the public, particularly traditional rulers and community leaders, to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence on individuals collaborating with terrorists or supplying information used to carry out attacks.
Matawalle also directed senior military commanders in volatile areas to strengthen surveillance and increase patrols aimed at identifying and destroying terrorist camps, hideouts and safe havens before they could be used to launch further attacks.
The minister commended the Armed Forces and other security personnel for their professionalism and sacrifices, praising recent operations that led to the neutralisation of several terrorists in Gummi, Bukkuyum, Anka, Tsafe, Faskari and other locations.
He urged the troops to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations and maintain pressure on terrorist groups until peace and security are fully restored across the affected states.
