By Laiatu Augustine Bamaiyi.
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa has renewed instruction to troopsis deployed in Zamfara State to decisively confront armed groups and eliminate any enemy combatant encountered in active battle situations without waiting for further clearance particularly where their lives are under immediate threat.
The directive, issued during an operational assessment visit to frontline formations in the state, underscores the federal government’s determination to intensify the ongoing counter-banditry and counter-terrorism operations across the North-west.
Musa, through the minister, charged field commanders and rank-and-file personnel to remain resolute, proactive, and guided by the rules of engagement, stressing that hesitation in life-threatening combat scenarios could undermine operational effectiveness and endanger troops.
He reaffirmed that the Armed Forces have full constitutional backing to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect law abiding citizens from criminal elements who have continued to unleash violence on rural communities in Zamfara and adjoining states.
“The Armed Forces must not allow criminal elements to dictate the pace of engagement. When confronted in the theatre of operations, especially under direct threat, troops are authorised to respond decisively,” the directive stated.
The defence leadership also assured troops of sustained logistical support, improved welfare packages, and enhanced intelligence coordination aimed at dismantling bandit enclaves and restoring normalcy to affected communities.
Zamfara has in recent years witnessed persistent attacks by armed groups, including kidnappings, cattle rustling, and raids on villages, prompting sustained military operations across forested corridors believed to serve as hideouts for criminal gangs.
Security sources say ongoing offensives have recorded significant gains, including the destruction of camps and the rescue of abducted victims, though isolated attacks continue in remote areas.
The minister commended the bravery and sacrifices of officers and soldiers operating under challenging terrain and security conditions, urging them to sustain the momentum until lasting peace is achieved.
The renewed directive signals a hardened posture by the defence authorities as the federal government intensifies efforts to degrade and ultimately eliminate violent non-state actors threatening stability in the region.
