By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

SOKOTO – The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and territorial integrity during an operational assessment visit to Tidibale Community in Isa Local Government Area, Sokoto State.

The visit, one of Major General Koughna’s first major field engagements since assuming command, followed the safe return of residents previously displaced by threats from bandit groups.

Addressing community members, the GOC said the purpose of the visit was to assess the security situation firsthand and to reinforce confidence in the military’s resolve to restore lasting peace. He assured residents that no part of Tidibale, or any other community in the North West, would be allowed to fall under the control of criminal elements.

“Troops have been permanently deployed to sustain a strong security presence, ensure rapid response to threats, and enable residents to resume farming and other legitimate livelihoods safely,” Major General Koughna stated. “The protection of communities and the restoration of normal life remain central to our mission. No bandit group will be allowed to hold any Nigerian community hostage.”

He also urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with security agencies by promptly reporting suspicious movements, noting that community support is critical to defeating insecurity nationwide.

On behalf of the Tidibale community, the Sarkin Arewa, Alhaji Ibrahim, expressed profound appreciation to the GOC for the timely visit, describing it as a morale booster. He said the renewed military presence had restored hope and reinforced confidence in the Army’s capacity to bring enduring peace and stability to the area.

Earlier, Major General Koughna received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Commanding Officer of 26 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Nasiru Mustapha, at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Isa, which provided updates on ongoing operations, troop deployments, and prevailing security dynamics in the region.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its resolve to intensify collaboration with local communities and other security stakeholders as part of broader national efforts to defeat banditry, secure rural communities, and strengthen peace across the North West and the country at large.