The Theatre Commander of Operation Fansan Yamma, Maj.-Gen. Oluyinka Soyele has called for increased support from local communities to effectively combat banditry and terrorism in Nigeria’s North West.
Speaking on Wednesday, during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigerian Legion in Zamfara State, Soyele stressed the critical role of local collaboration in achieving security goals. “The success of this operation hinges not only on the military but also on the support and cooperation of the local population,” he said in his office in Gusau, the state capital.
Soyele explained that the restructuring of previous military operations, including Operation Hadarin Daji and Whirl Punch, into Operation Fansan Yamma was intended to enhance coordination and improve responses to the ongoing challenges of terrorism and banditry in the region. “We are committed to improving our approach in both North West and Niger State,” he added.
According to Lt.-Col. Abubakar Abdullah, spokesperson for the joint operation, in a statement issued to Africa Health Report, the military has made notable progress, particularly in curbing banditry along the Gusau-Funtua highway.
Soyele reassured the public that troops were on high alert, ready to execute their mandates effectively with local intelligence.
During the visit, Aminu Ladan Madan, Chairman of the Nigerian Legion in Zamfara, expressed condolences for the recent death of former Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, and affirmed confidence in Soyele’s leadership. “With Gen. Soyele’s experience and dedication, we are optimistic about overcoming the current security challenges,” Madan said.
He also pledged the Legion’s full support for Operation Fansan Yamma, underscoring the importance of synergy between security forces and the local population to build a safer environment.
