The Commander of 17 Brigade, Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, said 17 Brigade under his command has recorded key operational successes in combating Terrorism and enhancing security in Katsina State.
General Omopariola stated this on Wednesday, 11th December 2024, when host to a team of Defence Correspondents who visited the 17 Brigade Headquarters ,Katsina to assess the Brigade’s operational activities and successes in securing the North West region of Nigeria.
The visit was led by Group Captain A.I. Bukar from the Directorate of Defence Media Operations (DMO) at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. Group Captain Bukar, who is also the Deputy Director of Foreign Affairs in DMO, was joined in the visit by Lt Colonel Shittu of the 78 Brigade Headquarters ,Sokoto, who has been integral to the media tour, providing vital support since receiving the team at Sultan Abubakar III International Airport in Sokoto.
The visiting Defence Correspondents were briefed by Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, on the Brigade’s ongoing efforts in the fight against terrorism and banditry, particularly in Katsina State and its surrounding regions. Brigadier General Omopariola shared insights into the Brigade’s operational successes, highlighted key achievements in curbing the activities of terrorists and enhancing security in the North West Nigeria.
He said despite facing significant challenges, including limited manpower and operational resources, 17 Brigade has made remarkable strides in securing the 34 Local Government Areas of Katsina State.
“The Brigade’s operations have been instrumental in combating terrorist activities, providing relief to local communities, and restoring stability to areas once plagued by violence. Through well-coordinated air-ground operations, the Brigade has neutralized numerous terrorists, destroyed their camps, and recovered critical arms and equipment. These operations have also led to the rescue of 230 kidnapped victims and the recovery of 342 stolen livestock, which were promptly returned to their rightful owners.
“The Brigade has also worked tirelessly to strengthen security along the northern borders of Katsina State, collaborating with other security agencies such as the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Nigeria Police (NP), and the Department of State Services (DSS), in joint operations aimed at reducing cross-border criminal activities. Notable successes were achieved in border areas with Niger Republic and in neighboring states like Zamfara, Kano, and Kaduna”General Omopariola disclosed.
In a closing remarks, Group Captain A.I. Bukar expressed gratitude on behalf of the visiting team,and the Director of Defence Media Operations DMO Defence Headquarters, Major General Edward Buba,commending the efforts of the 17 Brigade for their unwavering dedication and resilience in the face of adversity.He also praised the commitment of 17 Brigade in ensuring peace and security in the region, acknowledging the collaborative efforts of all security agencies involved in the ongoing operations.
Highlights of the visit was presentation of Souvenirs to the visit team, signing of visitors’ by Leader of the Team, Group Captain A I Bukar.
The visit underscored the critical role of 17 Brigade in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insecurity in the North West, and highlighted the Brigade’s significant contribution to restoring peace and stability in Katsina State.
