6th August, 2021
By Nimot Sulaimon
The Chief of Army Staff, (COAS) Lieutenant General Faruk Yahaya has solicited the support of traditional rulers in Northwest Nigeria for reliable and actionable information that will aid in combating banditry.
This, he said, is a crucial role of the local authorities and is pivotal indecisively in combating the activities of the criminals.
Gen Yahaya made the plea when he paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Daura, Alhaji Umar Farouk Umar, at his palace in Daura on Friday 6 August 2021.
Meanwhile, he mentioned that he was on an operational tour of Army formations and units in 8 Division and the North-West theatre of operation to evaluate, re-strategise and reinvigorate ongoing operations, as well as motivate troops deployed to fight banditry in the region.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s positive disposition toward collaborating with other security agencies and partnering with stakeholders of the security sector in the region to effectively degrade the activities of bandits and other criminal elements to speedily restore peace and stability to Katsina State and indeed the entire Northwest.
The COAS interacted with troops of 171 Battalion at Fort Muhammadu Buhari Forward Operating Base, during which the troops catalogued their challenges as a unit and as individuals.
He reiterated his commitment to ensuring that their wellbeing is topmost in the agenda of his command, adding that personnel must get their due entitlements and not be short-changed.
While appreciating the Emir and the good people of Daura, the COAS urged traditional rulers to use their position of strength and clout to regenerate and firm up their information network to put an end to banditry.
In his remarks, the Emir commended the Nigerian Army and the COAS for their sacrifices and dedication towards curtailing banditry and other security challenges bedevilling the state.
He stated that the people of Daura will not hesitate in volunteering within their capacity to mobilize grassroots support for the troops.
Emir of Daura urged the COAS and troops not to rest on their oars until normalcy is completely restored.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate the COAS on his appointment and prayed that God will guide and direct him to efficiently command the affairs of the Nigerian Army.
During the tour, the COAS also assessed ongoing projects at the 171 Battalion permanent site where he planted a tree to commemorate his visit. He also had an interactive session with officers from other security agencies.