A civil society coalition, the Northern Peace and Security Accountability Network (NPSAN), has commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, for his directive to troops to intensify operations against bandits across the North-West.

The group described the order, which urges troops to sustain offensive actions and “go after criminal elements until they are eliminated,” as a necessary response to the region’s persistent insecurity.

Speaking at a press conference in Kano on Wednesday, the coalition’s Zonal Coordinator, Ibrahim Mahmood Sani, said the directive reflects the urgency required to tackle banditry and restore public confidence.

According to him, communities in Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and parts of Kaduna have suffered years of attacks, kidnappings and displacement, necessitating stronger military action.

“The Chief of Defence Staff has shown that leadership is not exercised from afar. His presence in Zamfara, his interaction with troops, and his clear directive that Nigeria must be made safe at all costs send a strong message that the era of hesitation is over,” Sani said.

He noted that the CDS’s recent visit to the theatre command in Gusau demonstrated commitment to frontline realities and boosted troop morale.

The coalition also praised ongoing military operations, particularly Operation Fansan Yamma, describing it as a “critical national response framework” against banditry.

Sani said improved coordination, enhanced air-ground synergy and sustained pressure on criminal hideouts have begun to yield results in some affected areas.

“The fight against banditry is not a short-term assignment. It requires sustained commitment, and it is encouraging to see that the leadership of the Armed Forces is prioritising both operational effectiveness and troop welfare,” he added.

The group called on residents of the North-West to support security agencies with credible intelligence and avoid collaboration with criminal elements, warning that insecurity thrives where communities remain disengaged.

It also urged security forces to maintain professionalism and uphold human rights while conducting operations.

“The success of this mission depends not only on firepower but also on trust. Communities must feel protected, and security forces must continue to act with discipline and respect for human rights,” the coalition said.

NPSAN further commended state governments in the region for providing logistical support and intelligence to security agencies, describing such collaboration as vital.

The group expressed optimism that sustained military pressure, stronger inter-agency cooperation and active citizen participation would help restore stability in the North-West.