The Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, has strongly reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Federal Government to eradicate Lakurawa and other terrorist groups operating in various parts of the country.
During an inspection tour of the newly established Air Force component of the military's operations targeting banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings, known as ‘Operation Fansan Yamma,’ held on Monday in Sokoto, Abubakar emphasized the Federal Government's decisive efforts in tackling insecurity.
The minister disclosed that the military has implemented a well-coordinated and strategic operation against the Lakurawa group, particularly across affected areas in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
“Leaders and residents of the Local Government Areas attacked by Lakurawa in Kebbi and Sokoto states have testified to the substantial presence of security personnel deployed to those regions,” he stated.
“As a result of the dedicated efforts and resilience of our security operatives, the Lakurawa group has been forced out of the areas they once occupied. Additionally, our Air Force has achieved remarkable success by conducting precision airstrikes on several hideouts of bandits, driving them into disarray,” Abubakar noted.
The Minister further explained that advanced facilities and modern military equipment have been stationed strategically in Katsina and Sokoto states to enhance the operational efficiency of military efforts across the northwest region.
“We have recently launched new air component platforms in Katsina and Sokoto states and unveiled state-of-the-art attack helicopters to bolster the fight against banditry, terrorism, and the Lakurawa group. Plans are underway to deploy some of these resources to other critical areas,” he remarked.
According to the minister, the Nigerian Armed Forces remain fully committed to neutralizing the threats posed by Lakurawa and other terrorist elements in the northwest region and beyond.
He called on residents and relevant agencies to lend their unwavering support to ongoing military operations, assuring them that President Bola Tinubu is steadfast in providing the necessary support to ensure the success of these operations aimed at eliminating criminal activities across the country.
“The Federal Government is pursuing a visionary approach by building upon existing frameworks while instituting critical reforms to address emerging security challenges,” he said.
“Our primary focus remains strengthening proven strategies, improving areas of concern, and introducing innovative initiatives to address identified gaps effectively,” Abubakar added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the Minister of Defence was accompanied during the tour by the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar; Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Brig.-Gen. Ibikunle Ajose; and other top military officials.
