Olufemi Oluyede, the acting chief of army staff, has visited the 8 division area of responsibility in Sokoto state, commencing his first operational tour.

 

In a statement via the army’s X page, Oluyede was said to have arrived in Sokoto on Sunday, visiting the forward operations base Tangaza and 248 battalions in Illela.

 

The army said the Ag COAS received “critical briefings” from Ibikunle Ajose, general officer commanding 8 division.

 

“Addressing the troops, the Ag COAS praised their dedication and sacrifices in combating terrorism and insurgency in Nigeria’s North West zone,” the statement reads.

 

“He emphasized that his tour aims to gather firsthand information on the security situation and challenges faced by the troops.

 

“The Ag COAS assured the troops of his unwavering support, urging them to remain vigilant and avoid complacency in their operations.

 

“Lt Gen Oluyede stressed the crucial role of collaboration between the military and local communities in overcoming security challenges.

 

“He urged the public to provide reliable information to support the troops’ efforts, highlighting that the Nigerian Army’s success relies heavily on local backing.”

 

The statement quoted Oluyede as saying, “The Nigerian Army belongs to the people.”

 

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