By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has conducted an assessment visit to Tidibale Community in Isa Local Government Area of Sokoto State, assuring residents of sustained military presence to prevent the return of bandits.
The visit, part of the GOC’s first official engagements, came after residents safely returned to the community following earlier displacement caused by insecurity.
Addressing the people, Major General Koughna reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property, noting that troops have been deployed and will remain in Tidibale to maintain peace and stability.
He stressed that no part of the community would be allowed to fall under the control of criminal elements, adding that security forces remain on high alert and ready to respond swiftly to any threats.
The GOC also called on residents to support ongoing security efforts by promptly reporting suspicious activities.
Responding on behalf of the community, the Sarkin Arewa of Tidibale, Alhaji Ibrahim, thanked the Nigerian Army for the timely visit, describing it as reassuring and morale-boosting. He said the renewed military presence has restored confidence among residents to return to farming and other livelihood activities.
Earlier, Major General Koughna received a detailed operational briefing from the Commanding Officer of 26 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha, at the Forward Operating Base in Isa, on the security situation and ongoing operations in the area.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its determination to continue working closely with local communities to consolidate peace and ensure lasting security across the Northwest region.
