Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has charged newly deployed Nigerian Army troops to launch a decisive offensive against bandits terrorising communities in Yauri Emirate and neighbouring areas.
The governor issued the directive on Friday during an inspection of reinforcements dispatched to bolster ongoing military operations across Yauri, Shanga and Ngaski Local Government Areas—parts of the state that have become security flashpoints due to their proximity to Niger and Zamfara states.
“I want to call on all of you to ensure that you wipe out these bandits. They continue to attack our innocent communities, and with your deployment, I am confident that, by God’s grace, you will successfully address the challenge of banditry in this area,” Mr Idris said.
Describing the bandits’ activities as a deliberate attempt to destabilise peaceful communities, the governor expressed confidence that the renewed military presence would defeat the criminal elements. He urged troops to sustain aggressive operations until lasting peace was fully restored, enabling displaced farmers to return to their land and residents to resume socio-economic activities without fear.
Mr Idris commended Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu for the timely reinforcement, which he described as strategic to ongoing counter-banditry efforts in the state. He noted that Kebbi also shares an international border with the Republic of Benin, while Fakai Local Government Area borders Sokoto State—factors that render parts of the state vulnerable to cross-border criminality.
The governor assured the troops of his administration’s full support, pledging to provide necessary logistics and assistance to facilitate their operations. While acknowledging that the soldiers are federal personnel, he emphasised that their deployment is aimed at safeguarding the lives and property of Kebbi residents, making their welfare and operational success a priority for his government.
Mr Idris described security as a collective responsibility requiring sustained collaboration between federal and state governments.
