By Abba Dukawa
Since assuming power, the administration has faced numerous challenges, with insecurity being a significant concern, particularly in the North West geopolitical zone.
The North West region has been plagued by increasingly lethal criminal gangs responsible for mass abductions, farm seizures, and widespread internal displacement.
The escalating violence has triggered growing instability in this region, home to approximately 60 million people. Notably, an estimated 84 percent of fatalities linked to criminal groups in the North West region occurred in Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, and Kaduna States.
Despite these challenges, the administration has pledged to tackle the issue head-on, adopting a comprehensive approach that is already yielding positive results. The ultimate goal is to create a safer environment for affected local government areas, states, and all Nigerians.
To achieve this goal, the administration has continued supporting *Operation Hadarin Daji* (Operation Fensan Yamma), launched in 2022 to neutralize bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements in the region. The operation has recently contributed to improved security in the North West region, enabling citizens to resume their normal activities with greater confidence.
Troops of Operation Fensan Yamma have recently dealt a significant blow to notorious bandit leaders, killing several key commanders and fighters, including Aminu Kanawa (Second-in-command to Bello Turji), Dosso (Bello Turji’s younger brother), Abu Dan Shehu (a key commander), Jabbi Dogo (a key commander), Dan Kane (a key commander), Basiru Yellow (a key commander), and Suleiman (a loyalist of the late terrorist leader Halilu Sububu).
The Federal Government and the Nigerian Armed Forces deserve commendation for their excellent efforts in neutralizing Bello Turji, a notorious bandit leader, which led to the release of all captives held by his group amid intensified military operations aimed at capturing him and dismantling his network. However, Turji’s decision to release the captives is seen as a strategic attempt to avoid further escalation or direct confrontation with security forces.
Additionally, many fleeing terrorists were killed in Sokoto and Zamfara States. These operations have significantly weakened the terrorist networks operating in the North West region.
While the operation has contributed to improved security, the military acknowledges that more work is needed to achieve lasting peace and stability. Nevertheless, citizens must show their support for the Nigerian Armed Forces as they work tirelessly to defeat terrorism and insecurity in the North West and across the country.
Their bravery, sacrifices, and dedication to protecting Nigeria cannot go unnoticed and are truly commendable. Let us stand together to show our appreciation and support for the Nigerian Armed Forces and Operation Fensan Yamma.
Abba Dukawa wrote from Abuja and can be reached at abbahydukawa@gmail.com.
