Army Commander Visits Sokoto Community, Pledges Troops’ Readiness to Tackle Terrorists
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has visited Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State to assess the security situation following renewed threats allegedly linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group.
Koughna, who is also the Commander of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, visited the area on Sunday as part of an operational assessment of the Forward Operating Base in Kebbe and surrounding communities.
The visit followed reports of a renewed attack on Ungushi community, amid growing security concerns around the Sokoto-Kebbi border. Some residents in affected communities have reportedly fled their homes following attacks and incidents of livestock rustling.
During the visit, the Army commander met with community leaders and residents to hear their concerns and assess the security challenges confronting the area.
Koughna assured residents that the Nigerian Army had adjusted its security architecture to prevent terrorist infiltration and protect vulnerable communities.
He said troops remained fully deployed and highly alert, with the Army prepared to respond quickly to emerging threats.
The GOC also warned that terrorist elements would not be allowed to establish safe havens in Kebbe and neighbouring communities.
The commander appealed to residents not to panic, assuring them that security forces were firmly on the ground.
He encouraged residents to continue with their lawful activities while maintaining communication with security agencies.
Koughna stressed that community intelligence would be critical to preventing future attacks. He urged residents and community leaders to promptly report suspicious movements, unfamiliar individuals and other activities that could pose security risks.
The Army commander reiterated that troops would maintain a strong presence across Kebbe and other vulnerable communities in the operational area.
He said the military remained committed to protecting lives, property and critical infrastructure, while ensuring that criminal and terrorist groups were denied freedom of movement.
The visit forms part of continuing military efforts to strengthen security along the Sokoto-Kebbi border following recent security incidents and renewed concerns over terrorist activity.
