The Nigerian Army has operationalized the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, alongside the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, as part of efforts to strengthen security and protect vulnerable communities in Kebbi State.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, formally operationalized the formations, with the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, representing him at the ceremony.
Koughna said the establishment of the new formations was in line with the Nigerian Army’s efforts to optimize its force structure, expand its operational presence, strengthen command and control, and improve response time to security threats across the North-West.
He charged the Acting Commander of 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to ensure that the deployment provided essential fire-support capabilities and enhanced the Division’s operational effectiveness.
The GOC said the new formations would also strengthen ongoing security operations in Kebbi State, particularly against criminal elements and other emerging threats.
He emphasized that achieving lasting peace required discipline, tactical focus and effective collaboration among security agencies and other stakeholders.
Koughna further urged troops to maintain high standards of professionalism, strictly observe the Rules of Engagement and protect law-abiding citizens while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
The GOC also commiserated with residents of Jandutse community over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack.
He assured the community of increased military presence to enhance the safety and security of residents.
In response, the people of Jandutse appreciated the GOC for what they described as his continued efforts to improve security in the community and across Kebbi State.
