Bandits’ invasion: GOC tours Kano-Katsina border routes, lauds troops

By Muhammad Nur Tijani

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar Wase, has taken a tour of border areas of Kano and Katsina State following the November 2 invasion of bandits which led to the death of two security personnel and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force in the area.

The visit was aimed at assessing the security situation, addressing operational challenges, and boosting troops’ morale in the fight against banditry in the region.

Speaking during the visit, Wase who is also Commander, Sector 1 Joint Task Force, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, commended troops for their bravery and professionalism during a recent operation against bandits in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State.

In a statement issued in Kano on Wednesday, Capt. Babatunde Zubairu, Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, said Wase gave the commendation during an operational assessment visit to frontline troops at the Farin Ruwa and Tsaure Forward Operating Bases in Shanono.

According to him, the GOC charged the troops to remain professional and resolute in their commitment to rid the area of banditry and other criminal activities.

“The visit followed a recent bandit incursion in Shanono on Nov. 2, 2025, which led to the death of two security personnel and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force,” Zubairu added.

Wase interacted with the personnel, listened to their concerns, and provided operational guidance, assuring them of continued support from the Army Chief.

He expressed confidence in the troops’ capacity to sustain the momentum of ongoing operations and restore lasting peace to the area.

Zubairu further stated that the GOC inspected a border area between Kano and Katsina States identified as a major crossing point for bandits, urging the troops to remain vigilant and maintain close collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders.

He said the troops involved in the operation include personnel from the 3 Brigade, Nigerian Air Force, Nigeria Police Force, and the Civilian Joint Task Force.

Zubairu added that the GOC later paid a courtesy visit to the Gov. Abba Yusuf, at the Government House, Kano, where they discussed security matters and exchanged souvenirs.(NAN)