By Saminu Ibrahim
The Nigerian Army has operationalised the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, alongside the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, as part of efforts to strengthen security operations in Kebbi State.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, formally operationalised the formations.
Major General Koughna said the establishment of the Brigade was in line with the Army’s efforts to optimise its force structure, expand operational footprints, 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 the effective deployment of the formation’s fire-support capabilities to enhance operations within the Division’s area of responsibility.
The GOC urged troops to remain disciplined and professionally focused while maintaining close cooperation with other security agencies to tackle banditry and other criminal activities in the state.
He also directed the troops to strictly observe the Rules of Engagement and protect law-abiding citizens while carrying out their constitutional responsibilities.
Koughna, who also commiserated with residents of Jandutse community over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack, assured them of increased military presence to enhance their safety.
The residents appreciated the GOC for the Army’s continued efforts to protect communities and improve security across Kebbi State.
