From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
Communities across the Northwest region have expressed deep appreciation for the efforts of military troops involved in Operation Fasan Yamma, applauding their ongoing fight against bandits and criminal elements.
Residents from Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina states noted that the military’s operations are yielding tangible results, allowing people to resume their daily activities and businesses without the constant fear of attacks.
During a two-day tour from May 27 to 28 organized by Defence Correspondents at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, locals confirmed that security has significantly improved. Towns and villages are witnessing a return to normalcy, with citizens moving freely without intimidation from terrorist groups.
At Faskari Local Government Area in Katsina State, Mallam Ashiru Saidu, a class teacher at Government Science School, praised the operation, stating,
“The military is doing their best. Every day, we see soldiers patrolling, and we believe they are working perfectly.”
He revealed that Operation Fasan Yamma has neutralized about 60 bandits, including some notorious criminals.
Similarly, Mallam Babangida Sa’idu from Faskari said military presence has greatly reduced criminal activities.
“We have seen a positive change. We truly appreciate the military’s efforts.”
He also warned informers who leak information to bandits, stressing that such betrayal will have serious consequences:
“This is our biggest challenge. Without informers, the military would have caught bandits within 24 hours. Those feeding bandits with information will face the law.”
In Zamfara State, residents expressed relief that markets are open, children are back in school, and people can safely visit public spaces.
In an address to Defence Correspondents in Sokoto, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2 of Operation Fasan Yamma, dismissed rumors about the growing strength of the Lakurawa terror group operating in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
He explained that joint operations with Niger Republic security forces have disrupted the group’s logistics and movement, preventing coordinated cross-border attacks.
Major General Ajose highlighted the non-kinetic efforts of the troops, which have resulted in the rescue of over 100 kidnapped victims in Katsina and across the Northwest between April and May 2025.
He added that engagement with both Fulani and Hausa communities facilitated the unconditional release of many victims.
Responding to questions on terror threats, the GOC assured that no large-scale attacks have occurred in the Northwest.
“We are prepared for any eventuality. We have technology and well-trained personnel to counter threats,” he affirmed.
He urged the media to support the military’s counter-terrorism efforts for continued success.
In Gusau, Zamfara State, Major General Oluyinka Soyele, Theater Commander of Operation Fasan Yamma, told Defence Correspondents that the region is experiencing its safest period in recent years.
He credited this success to sustained operations and strong inter-agency collaboration and vowed to maintain the offensive until lasting peace is achieved.
Meanwhile, in Illela, Sokoto State, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, Commanding Officer of the 248 Recce Battalion, praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, and GOC Ajose for their ongoing support, which has boosted troop morale and operational effectiveness against bandits and terrorists in the Northwest.
The Defence Correspondents’ tour is part of a broader Nigerian military initiative to showcase frontline achievements and provide the public with a transparent view of security developments in the Northwest and beyond.