The Nigerian Army has stepped up security operations in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State following growing concerns over the activities of the Lakurawa terrorist group in communities along the Sokoto-Kebbi border.
The move comes after a reported attack on Ungushi community, which heightened fears among residents and prompted calls for stronger military protection in Kebbe and surrounding areas.
As part of the response, the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, visited the Forward Operating Base in Kebbe and other affected communities on Sunday to assess the security situation and evaluate the readiness of troops.
The visit was aimed at strengthening the Army’s presence in areas considered vulnerable to attacks and preventing terrorists from using the border corridor as a base for operations.
During the visit, Koughna met with community leaders and residents to hear their concerns and gather information about developments in the area.
He assured residents that troops remained deployed and prepared to respond to threats, saying the Army would not allow terrorists to establish a foothold in Kebbe or neighbouring communities.
The GOC also directed adjustments to the existing security arrangements around vulnerable locations to improve the protection of residents and respond more effectively to emerging threats.
Koughna urged residents not to panic, assuring them that security personnel were present and working to protect lives and property.
However, he stressed that the fight against terrorism could not be won by the military alone.
He appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to share credible information about suspicious movements, unfamiliar individuals and activities that could threaten security.
According to him, timely intelligence from local communities is crucial to detecting and disrupting terrorist networks before they can carry out attacks.
The renewed military focus on Kebbe comes amid wider concerns over Lakurawa’s activities in parts of the North-West, particularly communities close to the Sokoto-Kebbi border.
The Army said it would continue to maintain a strong presence in the area and adjust its operations as the security situation evolves.
Koughna urged residents to remain vigilant, law-abiding and cooperative with security agencies, while warning terrorist and criminal groups that the Army would not allow Kebbe to become a safe haven for them.
The operational assessment was disclosed in a statement issued on August 16 by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
