The Nigerian Army has intensified clearance and internal security operations across parts of Kwara and Niger states in a renewed push to combat banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities threatening the North Central region.
The Commander, Headquarters 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, disclosed this on Saturday during the 2025 Nigerian Army Social Activities held at the Sobi Cantonment in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital.
Rume said the brigade has sustained multiple military operations within its Area of Responsibility, focusing on criminal hideouts in border communities and forest reserves.
According to him, ongoing and recently concluded operations include Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Harmony in Kwara State, and Operations Park Strike IV and V. He explained that Operations Park Strike IV and V covered the Kainji Lake National Park, adjoining communities in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as Kaiama and Baruten Local Government Areas of Kwara State.
“The year 2025 has seen the 22 Armoured Brigade conduct several clearance operations, including Operations Park Strike IV and V, which covered Kainji Lake National Park and its adjoining villages, as well as areas in Borgu LGA of Niger State and Kaiama and Baruten LGAs of Kwara State,” Rume said.
He added that Operation Fansan Yamma is currently ongoing and aimed at flushing out bandits while restoring peace and normalcy to affected communities.
The brigade commander also revealed that the Army has strengthened its operational footprint through the establishment of Forward Operating Bases in Patigi and Ilemona, alongside patrol bases in Babasango, Gada and Daban Lema, to enhance rapid response to security threats within Kwara and neighbouring states.
“These bases complement our operations in adjoining states and significantly improve our response capability,” he said.
Rume noted that the intensified operations were necessitated by the rising incidence of terrorism, kidnapping, banditry and armed robbery in parts of the North Central zone. He assured residents of the Army’s continued collaboration with other security agencies to ensure lasting peace and stability.
Also speaking at the event, Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the Nigerian Army, particularly the 22 Armoured Brigade, for its role in improving security across the state.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Saliu Bello (retd.), the governor described the military’s efforts as critical to protecting lives and livelihoods, noting that sustained collaboration between the state government and the Army has continued to yield positive results.
“I applaud the relentless efforts of the 22 Armoured Brigade and the Nigerian Army in tackling these security challenges. Your bravery and determination are making a tangible difference in our state,” AbdulRazaq said.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the military through logistics and cooperation, while also appreciating the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their leadership and support for the Armed Forces.
The annual Nigerian Army Social Activities, military authorities said, serves as a platform to boost morale, foster unity and review operational performance, while celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity among officers, soldiers and their families.
