By HeapNews
SOKOTO, Nigeria, Jan 18 – A senior Nigerian army commander has pledged to maintain a strong military presence in Tidibale, a rural community in Sokoto state, after residents who had fled amid bandit threats recently returned home, the army said on Sunday.
Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, made the pledge during an assessment visit to Tidibale in Isa Local Government Area as part of his first official engagements.
Addressing residents, Koughna said the visit followed the community’s return after being displaced by armed groups and was aimed at evaluating the security situation on the ground. He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to protecting lives and property and restoring normalcy, including enabling farmers to resume their work without fear.
“Troops are now stationed in Tidibale to maintain a robust security presence and remain vigilant, ready to respond swiftly to any threats,” he said, adding that no part of the community would be left under the control of bandit groups.
Koughna also urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious activities promptly, stressing that cooperation between security forces and local communities was key to sustaining peace.
The Sarkin Arewa of Tidibale, Alhaji Ibrahim, speaking on behalf of the community, thanked the army chief for the visit, saying it had renewed hope among residents facing persistent insecurity. He expressed confidence in the military’s commitment to bringing lasting peace and stability to the area.
Earlier, Koughna received an operational briefing from Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha, commanding officer of the 26 Battalion, at the Forward Operating Base in Isa, where he was updated on current security conditions and ongoing operations.
Northwest Nigeria has been plagued in recent years by armed groups commonly referred to as bandits, who have carried out attacks on villages, abducted residents and disrupted farming and trade.
The army said it remained resolute in working with local communities to achieve enduring peace and security across the region.