Nigerian Army activates three battalions in Zamfara

The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new infantry battalions in Zamfara State as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and improve rapid response. The units are the 12 Infantry Battalion in Bakura, the 23 Infantry Battalion in Kaura Namoda and the 28 Infantry Battalion in Anka. The Army said they would expand operational coverage and secure their respective areas of responsibility.

The activation ceremonies were addressed on behalf of Major General BP Koughna, General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, by Colonel Joseph Umaru, Acting Commander of 1 Brigade. Umaru reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to protecting law-abiding residents. He said lasting peace would require cooperation among security agencies, traditional institutions and local communities.

He urged residents to provide security agencies with timely, credible and actionable intelligence. Addressing the newly deployed troops, he called for discipline, professionalism and operational vigilance, alongside compliance with their constitutional responsibilities and established rules of engagement. Traditional rulers in the three locations welcomed the new deployments.

The Emir of Bakura, Bello Sani; the Emir of Anka, Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad; and the Emir of Kaura Namoda, Sanusi Mohammed Ahmed, described the establishment of the units as an important step towards improving safety and restoring normalcy. The monarchs pledged continued support from traditional institutions, including community mobilisation and information sharing. The Army said the battalions were expected to improve its ability to respond quickly to threats across Zamfara.