The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has embarked on a strategic maiden operational tour to Sokoto State, marking a critical step in his leadership of the Nigerian Army. This landmark visit underscores his commitment to assessing the realities on the ground and enhancing frontline operations against terrorism and insurgency in the North West.
On November 10, 2024, Lt. Gen. Oluyede arrived in Sokoto State, promptly advancing to key military positions including the Forward Operations Base in Tangaza and the 248 Battalion in Illela. Here, he received an in-depth briefing from Brigadier General Ibikunle Ajose, General Officer Commanding the 8 Division, on the security landscape, recent achievements, and challenges within the area of responsibility.
In his address to the assembled troops, Lt. Gen. Oluyede expressed profound gratitude for their relentless dedication and bravery in the face of adversity. “Your sacrifices in safeguarding our nation are the cornerstone of our defense against the forces that threaten our peace,” he said, highlighting their pivotal role in securing Nigeria’s sovereignty. He reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the soldiers on the frontlines have the resources, training, and support necessary to excel in their mission, encouraging them to remain vigilant and resilient amidst ongoing threats.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede stressed the importance of a synergistic relationship between the military and local communities, noting that collaboration is essential to achieving sustainable security. He called on the public to be active participants in the fight against insurgency by providing timely and reliable intelligence, which, he emphasized, could tip the balance in favor of the Nigerian Army. “The Nigerian Army belongs to the people. Our success depends on the support of every citizen,” he stated, underscoring the Army’s role as both protector and partner to the communities it serves.
This message was echoed during Lt. Gen. Oluyede’s discussions with Honorable Bashir Salihu, Chairman of Tangaza Local Government Area, alongside traditional leaders and heads of local security agencies in Illela. The Acting Chief of Army Staff emphasized the urgent need for cohesive, collective action, stressing that the unity between military forces, local authorities, and civilians is instrumental in pushing back against threats to Nigeria’s stability.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede’s visit marks a significant moment in the Nigerian Army’s ongoing mission to restore peace and stability across the nation. By building trust with local communities and fostering collaboration with local leadership, he is setting the foundation for a stronger, more united approach to national defense. The Acting Chief of Army Staff’s maiden operational tour sends a clear message: the Nigerian Army, under his leadership, is committed to not only defending but also empowering the people of Nigeria.
This strategic visit has not only reinvigorated the morale of the troops but also deepened the Army’s ties with the communities they protect, paving the way for more effective, integrated operations against insurgency and terrorism in the North West.
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