The General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgba Koughna, has inspected security operations in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State following renewed threats reportedly linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group.
The visit, announced in a statement on Sunday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division and Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lt. Col. Olaniyi Osoba, was aimed at assessing the security situation and strengthening measures to protect affected communities.
Koughna carried out an operational assessment of the Forward Operating Base, Kebbe, and neighbouring communities after reports of a fresh attack on Ungushi community.
The development comes amid increased security concerns around the Sokoto-Kebbi border, where attacks and livestock rustling have reportedly forced some residents to flee affected areas.
During the assessment, the GOC engaged community leaders and residents, heard their concerns and reviewed the prevailing security challenges.
Koughna assured the communities that the Army had reinforced its security arrangements to prevent terrorist infiltration and safeguard vulnerable areas.
He said, “Troops remain fully deployed, highly alert and operationally focused on protecting lives and property.”
According to him, measures had also been introduced to detect emerging threats early and contain them before they develop into larger security incidents.
“The Nigerian Army remains unwavering in its determination to respond swiftly and decisively to any emerging threats”, he continued.
The Army commander further pledged that terrorist groups would not be permitted to establish operational bases or safe havens in Kebbe and nearby communities.
He said, “We will continue to maintain a robust presence in this area and ensure that our troops remain ready to respond to any threat to the peace and security of the people.”
Koughna also appealed to residents to remain calm and continue their legitimate activities, assuring them that security personnel were deployed in the area and working to rebuild public confidence.
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He said, “I urge you to remain calm and continue with your lawful activities. Your security remains our priority, and we will continue to do everything within our mandate to protect you”, he added.
The GOC stressed the importance of stronger cooperation between security forces and local communities, particularly through the prompt sharing of reliable intelligence.
He said, “Community support remains a critical component in detecting, disrupting and dismantling terrorist networks before they can launch attacks.”
He urged residents and community leaders to report suspicious movements, unknown persons and other activities that could threaten the security of the area.
Koughna said effective intelligence-sharing would remain vital to stopping attacks and restricting the movement of criminal and terrorist groups.
He also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to securing lives, property and critical infrastructure across Kebbe and other vulnerable communities within its operational area.
He said, “We will not allow criminal elements to intimidate our people or disrupt their livelihoods. Our troops are prepared and will continue to operate with determination and professionalism.”
The inspection was part of continuing efforts by the Army to reinforce security in Kebbe and other vulnerable communities following recent incidents in the area.