In his determination to improve security situation in Kataina state and the North West zone as a whole the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Faruk Yahaya on Thursday called for civilians supports for army against the bandits.
General Yahaya made call when he paid a courtesy call on Katsina state Governor Aminu Masari and the Emir of Katsina, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr) Abdulmumini Kabir Usman in Katsina.
He assured them that there would be an improvement in security situation in Katsina state and North West as a whole soon.
Yahaya explained that what the army need is an enhance collaboration with the state government, information, as well as synergy with other security agencies in restoring peace and security in the region.
In his response the Governor of Katsina State, Right Honourable Aminu Bello Masari called on all Nigerians, particularly those residing in the northwest to support ongoing anti banditry operations in North West Nigeria.
He told General Yahaya who was on an operational tour of 8 Division, as well as formations and units under the Division’s area of responsibility, that there are improvements in security situation in the state.
Governor Masari urged the troops to sustain the momentum of the ongoing operations, particularly in rural communities, adding that this is necessary to halt isolated cases of killings and abductions by bandits in those areas.
Masari agreed with COAS that the troops could do more, if given the necessary support by Nigerians.
Meanwhile , COAS has assured the troops of his readiness to support ongoing operations with requisite logistics and other necessities to enhance the conduct of their operations.
General Yahaya gave the assurance at the Headquarters 17 Brigade, while addressing officers and soldiers of the formation during his operational tour.
He encouraged the troops to remain steadfast in carrying out their duties in the service to the nation in conformity with the constitutional mandate .