By Mo Hanif
The Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), Major General Warrah Idris, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to sustain aggressive mobile operations across the North West in a renewed push to dismantle bandit networks and restore security to troubled communities.
Major General Idris stated that the Command remains committed to fast, flexible and intelligence-driven operations designed to counter evolving threats posed by armed bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements operating across the region. According to him, the use of highly mobile troops, coordinated air and ground assaults, and real-time intelligence has significantly improved operational efficiency and response time.
He explained that Operation Fansan Yamma was strategically restructured to enhance offensive capabilities, allowing troops to take the fight directly to criminal hideouts rather than remaining on static defensive duties. The aggressive posture, he noted, has already led to the neutralisation of several bandit leaders, destruction of camps, and recovery of arms, ammunition and rustled livestock in parts of Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi and Sokoto states.
The Theatre Commander emphasised that the operation places strong emphasis on jointness, with the Army working closely with the Air Component, other security agencies and local vigilante groups. This collaboration, he said, has helped to improve intelligence gathering, secure key supply routes and protect vulnerable rural communities often targeted by criminals.
Major General Idris also assured residents of the North West that civilian safety remains a top priority, stressing that troops are guided by strict rules of engagement and respect for human rights. He called on communities to continue supporting security forces by providing timely and credible information, noting that public cooperation is critical to sustaining recent gains.
Despite ongoing successes, the commander acknowledged that challenges remain, including difficult terrain and the fluid movement of criminal groups across state borders. However, he maintained that sustained pressure and adaptive strategies would continue to weaken the operational capacity of bandits.
Operation Fansan Yamma is part of broader efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria to stabilise the North West, reopen major highways, facilitate the safe return of displaced persons and restore confidence in government authority across the region.