By Harriet Tornguvan
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has charged troops of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade stationed in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna State, to intensify efforts towards combating terrorism, kidnapping, cattle rustling and other criminal activities within their Joint Operations Area and Southern Kaduna in general.
General Oluyede gave the charge during an operational visit to the Brigade aimed at assessing its combat readiness and operational challenges with a view to enhancing efficiency in ongoing security operations.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, the visit was part of efforts to ensure the total eradication of criminal activities that had previously plagued the area before the establishment of the Brigade in 2024.
Addressing the troops, the CDS expressed satisfaction with their level of alertness, professionalism and dedication to duty. He urged them to remain committed and continue developing innovative strategies capable of keeping them ahead of criminal elements.
“You must keep outwitting criminals by anticipating their actions and evolving effective countermeasures. We will continue to support you with the necessary equipment, enablers and platforms, while also paying due attention to your welfare to ensure your success,” Oluyede stated.
Earlier in his briefing, the Commander of the 2 National Mission Force Brigade, Captain OJ Ekuma, highlighted some of the operational achievements recorded by the formation since its establishment.
According to him, the Brigade has neutralised several criminals, recovered weapons and rustled cattle, rescued kidnapped victims and arrested high-profile bandits and their collaborators.
He further disclosed that the Brigade had significantly disrupted the movement of bandits and other criminal groups within the operational area, thereby improving security across Southern Kaduna and adjoining communities.
As part of the operational appraisal, the CDS inspected ongoing Defence Headquarters projects and military deployments in the area. He also directed the provision of critical operational equipment and platforms considered inadequate for the Brigade’s operations.
The visit, which was accompanied by the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General JH Abdussalam, General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Major General EF Oyinlola, and other senior military officers, underscored the commitment of the Armed Forces leadership to improving troops’ welfare, operational capabilities and overall effectiveness in tackling insecurity across the country.
