The Federal Government is set to roll out 'Operation Fansan Yamma,' a joint military initiative aimed at tackling the rising menace of banditry and insecurity in Nigeria's North-West region. According to the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, plans are at an advanced stage to establish this new theatre command, which will be pivotal in curbing terrorism and related criminal activities in the area.
Minister Badaru made the announcement during a courtesy visit to Governor Uba Sani at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, Kaduna. His visit was part of an official tour of the North-West Zone to assess security challenges and implement coordinated strategies. Following discussions, the Minister spoke with journalists, emphasizing the importance of setting up a command and control centre in the North-West. "The president has charged us to be innovative and find lasting solutions to this security problem. We’re working hard to ensure its success," Badaru stated.
He further revealed that the government is fostering collaboration with neighboring countries, especially the Niger Republic, to bolster efforts against terrorism and arms trafficking across borders. "We are working closely with the military, security agencies, and neighbouring countries to tackle terrorism, banditry, and arms trafficking. The Chief of Defence Staff recently held talks with the Nigerien government to discuss collaborative efforts," he added. The minister expressed confidence that these efforts would address the pressing concerns in areas such as Sokoto and border regions, where cross-border criminal activities have been rampant.
Governor Uba Sani welcomed the initiative, citing the urgent need for a Command and Control Centre in the region to enhance coordination against terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers. He stressed the devastating impact of insecurity on the North-West, including threats to food security, healthcare access, and education. "Insecurity has had a debilitating effect on all facets of life in the North-West. Our zone, once Nigeria's food basket, now faces severe food shortages due to criminal activities," he lamented.
Governor Sani also highlighted the broader implications of the operation, stating that it would help restore public confidence, stimulate economic growth, and revive infrastructural projects that had been stalled due to security concerns. He suggested reassigning 'Operation Safe Haven' in Southern Kaduna to 1 Division Kaduna for better administrative and operational management.
The Defence Minister assured Nigerians of the government's unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability, adding that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration remains dedicated to addressing the multi-faceted challenges facing the North-West. "The president is committed to ending insecurity in Nigeria. We’re working tirelessly to ensure peace and stability. I assure Nigerians that we’ll tackle these challenges, and by God’s grace, we’ll succeed," he said.
The launch of 'Operation Fansan Yamma' represents a significant step towards combating the entrenched banditry and terrorism threatening the socio-economic stability of the region. As part of these efforts, Badaru noted that recommendations from recent security consultations in Sokoto and other states would play a key role in shaping a robust approach to restoring security across the North-West Zone.