The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Olatunbosun Oluyede, has announced an intensified campaign against the Lakurawa terror group in the North-West region.
Speaking at the 2024 COAS Annual Conference held at the Command Officers Mess, Abuja, he assured Nigerians of the Army’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing threats to national security.
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Lt. Gen. Oluyede revealed that Operation Fasan Yamma has significantly ramped up its efforts to dismantle the Lakurawa terror network. Highlighting the strategies deployed, he said, “Enhanced intelligence gathering, rapid deployment of special forces, and synchronized air and ground offensives have been deployed to control the region and eliminate threats. Additionally, local communities are being engaged for information-sharing to foster trust and unity in countering Lakurawa and other terror groups.”
The Army Chief emphasized a comprehensive strategy combining both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure lasting peace and stability in the affected areas. To maintain troop morale and operational efficiency, he announced the systematic rotation of soldiers in active theaters of operation. “We are committed to relieving overstretched personnel and introducing fresh forces to enhance operational effectiveness,” he stated, underscoring the importance of preserving the physical and mental well-being of troops.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede reiterated his leadership philosophy of transforming the Nigerian Army into a combat-ready and highly motivated force. “Training drives operational success, and under my command, training will remain focused and realistic to meet the demands of current and future operating environments,” he said.
He also stressed the role of professionalism in military education, noting that all Army training institutions would be geared toward equipping personnel with the skills necessary to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
Reflecting on the Army’s achievements in 2024, the COAS praised intensified efforts across all six geopolitical zones. He highlighted key operations such as Hadin Kai, Fasan Yamma, Whirl Stroke, Safe Haven, and Delta Safe, which have played pivotal roles in combating terrorism, banditry, and other security threats nationwide.
In particular, he noted the success of large-scale non-kinetic approaches in the North West and North East, which have led to the surrender of terrorists and the recovery of substantial arms and ammunition.
Acknowledging the support of the Executive and Legislative arms of government, Lt. Gen. Oluyede commended the acquisition of advanced military equipment, including helicopters, drones, and armored vehicles. “The refurbishment of T-72 tanks, Armored Personnel Carriers, and artillery pieces has significantly improved operational efficiency,” he added.
Looking ahead, the COAS assured Nigerians that the Army’s efforts to bolster its combat capabilities will continue into 2025. “We will upscale both kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to restore peace across the country,” he pledged.
He also expressed gratitude to the troops for their dedication and urged commanders to lead by example, quoting Sun Tzu: “A leader leads by example, not by force.”
