The Federal Government has restated the commitment of the military to flush out the Lakurawa armed group and other terrorists groups in the country.
Minister of Defence, Alhaji Badaru Abubakar, made the declaration during the inspection of the newly established airforce component of military operations against banditry, terrorism and kidnappings, codenamed “Operation Fansan Yamma” on November 18, 2024, in Sokoto.
He said the military had taken a decisive decision against Lakurawa group through a well-coordinated operation covering parts of Sokoto and Kebbi States.
“The chairmen and residents of the affected local government areas attacked by the Lakurawa in Kebbi and Sokoto States have testified to the heavy presence of troops in the area.
“The Lakurawa were sent away from the areas. This is as a result of the resilient and dedication of our security operatives.
“You are aware of the successes recorded by our airforce, they bombarded some of the hideouts of the bandits and the bandits are now on the run,” Abubakar said.
He also said that the troops in Katsina and Sokoto States were equipped with the necessary tools to ensure coordinated operations in the North West states.
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“We just launched new air component platforms in Katsina and Sokoto States, unveiled latest attack helicopters to fight banditry and Lakurawa and we will redeploy some to other areas.
”The Nigerian armed forces are working hard to checkmate Lakurawa and other terrorists in the North West, ” he said.
The minister urged residents and other sister security agencies to support the military operations, reiterating that President Bola Tinubu was fully supporting the operations to rid the country of all forms criminalities.
He added that government is pursuing a vision built upon existing foundations, while introducing necessary reforms to adapt to evolving realities.
”Our focus has been on strengthening what works, refining what needs improvement, and introducing new initiatives where gaps exist,” he said.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, acting General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Sokoto, Brig. Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, among others were present at the event.
