By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade to intensify efforts in tackling terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities threatening peace in Southern Kaduna and adjoining areas.
General Oluyede gave the directive during an operational visit to the Brigade located in Samaru Kataf, where he assessed the combat readiness of troops and reviewed operational challenges confronting the formation.
In a statement issued by the Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the CDS said troops must remain committed, professional and innovative in confronting criminal elements operating within their Joint Operations Area.
According to the statement, the visit was aimed at evaluating the Brigade’s operational preparedness and identifying areas requiring intervention to enhance ongoing military operations in the region.
Addressing the troops, General Oluyede expressed satisfaction with their level of alertness and professionalism, urging them to sustain the momentum in ongoing operations against criminal groups.
“You must keep out-witting criminals by anticipating their actions and evolving effective countermeasures. We will continue to support you with the necessary equipment, enablers, platforms and pay due attention to your welfare that will ensure your success,” the CDS stated.
Earlier, the Commander of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade, Capt. (NN) OJ Ekuma, highlighted achievements recorded by the formation, including the neutralisation of criminals, recovery of weapons and rustled cattle, rescue of kidnapped victims and arrest of suspected bandits and collaborators.
Ekuma also noted that the Brigade had successfully disrupted the movement of bandits and other criminal elements within its operational area, leading to improved security across Southern Kaduna.
The CDS also inspected ongoing Defence Headquarters projects and military deployments in the area, while directing the provision of additional operational equipment and platforms considered necessary for the Brigade’s effectiveness.
The visit was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Operations, Maj. Gen. JH Abdussalam, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Maj. Gen. EF Oyinlola, alongside other senior military officers.
