The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Olufemi Oluyede, has formally launched Operation Savannah Shield, a new joint military offensive aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and kidnapping syndicates operating in Kwara State and parts of neighbouring Niger State.
The intelligence-driven operation was operationalised on Thursday at the 22 Brigade, Sobi Military Cantonment in Ilorin, marking what the Defence Headquarters described as a decisive escalation in efforts to stabilise the North Central region.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony, General Oluyede said Operation Savannah Shield was not a routine deployment but a coordinated offensive designed to deny criminal elements freedom of action across vulnerable communities. He warned that forested enclaves and ungoverned spaces previously exploited by terrorists would no longer serve as safe havens, as troops commence sustained clearance and stabilisation operations.
According to him, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are fully prepared to dominate the operational environment, consolidate existing security gains, secure critical agricultural belts and ensure the protection of lives and property.
The CDS also stressed the importance of collaboration between security agencies and local communities, urged traditional rulers, youth leaders and residents to provide credible intelligence to support military operations. He disclosed that the Theatre Commander, Major General Yakubu Yahaya, will coordinate activities within the Joint Operational Area to ensure effective command and control.
In his remarks, Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, described the deployment as timely and strategic, noting that rising security concerns in Kwara North and adjoining communities necessitated urgent federal intervention.
The governor commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the swift response, expressing confidence that the operation would restore public confidence, strengthen peace and support economic recovery across affected communities.
He further highlighted the expected benefits for food security, saying improved safety would allow farmers to return fully to agricultural activities previously disrupted by insecurity.
Earlier, the Chief of Defence Operations, Major General Jamal Abdulsalam, emphasised that sustained collaboration among the Armed Forces and other security agencies remains critical to achieving mission success.
The ceremony was attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, other Service Chiefs, heads of security agencies, traditional rulers and key stakeholders, underscoring a unified national resolve to tackle terrorism and violent crimes in the region.
The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to eliminating terrorist threats and restoring lasting peace across the country.
