The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army Kaduna, Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, has said the division has recorded modest achievements in improving security in its Area of Responsibility (AOR) in 2024.
Saraso stated this at the annual 2024 West African Social Activities(WASA), held at the 2 Battalion parade ground in Ribadu Military Cantonment on Saturday in Kaduna.
He commended the troops for their robust and aggressive clearance operations against insurgents in Niger and Kaduna States, which had led to the release of kidnapped victims and the surrender of bandits.
The GOC acknowledged the contributions of other security agencies and stakeholders in addressing security challenges.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the WASA is an annual event that marks end of the year training and the regimental activities.
It affords officers, soldiers and their families the opportunity to socially interact, showcase their rich cultural heritage that enhances the unity of people.
Saraso recalled that the security situation in Kaduna when he assumed duty as the GOC was disturbing due to criminal activities.
“In the beginning of the year, there was the abduction of the Kuriga school children and also the unfortunate bombing of the Tudun Biri community, which we seriously regretted and took measures.
“But, here we are running through this year, most of these incidents have been curtailed, criminal activities have also reduced to a large extent,”he said.
According to him, commuters can now freely drive unescorted, unlike the beginning of the year where the travelers were put together and escorted to and from by the military especially along Kaduna-Birnin Gwari Road.
Saraso said, “With time, we stopped escorting, we started picketing the road at intervals.
”Today, we are only doing patrol along the road, with commuters driving freely. It is a big achievement for us.”
Similarly, the GOC said along the road and rail line of Kaduna-Abuja corridors, they have also recorded tremendous progress, almost free of criminal activities as compared to the previous years.
He, therefore, said with all the achievements they have recorded, there was every reason for them to come together with their families, friends, stakeholders to celebrate and think of what they would do in the new year.
He thanked the Chief of Army Staff for the support and guidance in the conduct of their operations.
Saraso also expressed appreciation to the Army chief in enhancing professionalism and regimentation in the Nigerian Army.
He also thanked the government and people of Kaduna state, the media and other stakeholders including security and law enforcement agencies for their cooperation and support.
Gov. Uba Sani said he was particularly impressed by their division’s achievements in combating kidnapping, cattle rustling, and banditry.
Sani, represented by the Commissioner, Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr James Kanyip, said the division successes have had a profound impact on the security of the state and its surrounding areas.
He said the collaborative approach with other security agencies through Operation FANSAN YAMMA had significantly contributed to the peace and stability of the state.
Saraso said, “The gallantry and courage displayed by your troops in these operations are both commendable and deeply appreciated.
”As we look toward 2025, I assure you of my steadfast support and encourage you to remain focused and resilient in confronting emerging challenges.”
Sani urged the 1 Division to continue embracing the highest standards of professionalism, steadfastness, proactiveness, and ever-committed to the noble task of safeguarding Kaduna state and nation in general.
NAN also reports that awards were given to the soldiers who distinguished themselves in 2024. (NAN)
