Nigerian Army sets up three new battalions to improve security in Zamfara

The Nigerian Army has launched three new Infantry Battalions in Zamfara State. This move aims to boost security efforts and ensure a quicker response across the region.

On Tuesday, the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 1 Brigade Nigerian Army in Gusau shared this news on X. The new units are the 12 Infantry Battalion in Bakura, 23 Infantry Battalion in Kaura Namoda, and 28 Infantry Battalion in Anka.

These battalions will help the Army cover more ground and secure their specific Areas of Responsibility (AOR).

During the activation ceremonies, Major General BP Koughna spoke on behalf of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA. Colonel Joseph Umaru, the Acting Commander of 1 Brigade, shared the Army's commitment to better security in the state.

Colonel Umaru highlighted that the military will keep working to protect law-abiding citizens. He noted that achieving lasting peace needs cooperation from security agencies, traditional leaders, and local communities.

He urged residents to help security agencies by providing “timely, credible, and actionable intelligence.”

While addressing the new troops, Umaru encouraged them to maintain discipline, professionalism, and be alert while fulfilling their duties. He reminded them to follow the established Rules of Engagement.

The traditional leaders in the three areas welcomed the new battalions. The Emir of Bakura, Alhaji Bello Sani, the Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad, and the Emir of Kaura Namoda, Maj. Dr Sanusi Mohammed Ahmed (rtd), praised the Nigerian Army for setting up additional units.

The monarchs said these deployments are a “crucial milestone” in restoring normalcy and improving safety in Zamfara communities. They assured the Army of their support, especially in mobilizing the community and sharing information.

“We urge residents to provide timely, credible, and actionable intelligence,” Umaru said.

The Army stated that the new battalions will improve its ability to respond quickly to security threats and enhance operations in their respective areas.