Key Points
- The Nigerian Army has activated three new infantry battalions in Zamfara State.
- The new formations are located in Bakura, Kaura Namoda and Anka.
- The units are intended to expand operational coverage and improve rapid response.
- Residents have been urged to provide credible and actionable security intelligence.
- Troops were instructed to maintain professionalism, discipline and vigilance.
- Traditional rulers pledged continued cooperation with security agencies.
- The deployment is part of broader security operations in Zamfara and the North-West.
The Nigerian Army has operationalised three new infantry battalions in Zamfara State as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security, expand operational coverage and improve its response to security threats across the state.
The newly activated formations are the 12 Infantry Battalion in Bakura, 23 Infantry Battalion in Kaura Namoda, and 28 Infantry Battalion in Anka.
According to the Army, the deployment is designed to enhance the security of the respective Areas of Responsibility of the three battalions while improving rapid response capabilities and strengthening military presence in communities across Zamfara.
The development comes as security agencies continue operations aimed at protecting residents and restoring stability in parts of the North-West.
Army Reaffirms Commitment to Zamfara Security
Speaking during the activation ceremonies, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General B.P. Koughna, represented by the Acting Commander, 1 Brigade, Colonel Joseph Umaru, reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens.
Colonel Umaru stressed that achieving lasting peace would require cooperation among the military, other security agencies, traditional institutions and residents.
He therefore called on people across Zamfara State to support ongoing security operations by providing timely, credible and actionable intelligence to security agencies.
The Acting Brigade Commander also charged officers and soldiers of the newly deployed battalions to maintain discipline, professionalism and operational vigilance.
He reminded the troops to carry out their constitutional responsibilities in line with established Rules of Engagement.
Traditional Rulers Welcome New Battalions
The traditional rulers in the affected communities welcomed the establishment of the three new infantry battalions.
The Emir of Bakura, Alhaji Bello Sani; Emir of Anka, Alhaji Attahiru Muhammad Ahmad; and Emir of Kaura Namoda, Major Dr Sanusi Mohammed Ahmed Asha (rtd), commended the Nigerian Army for increasing its operational presence in the state.
The monarchs described the deployment as an important step towards improving peace and safety in communities across Zamfara.
They also pledged the support and cooperation of traditional institutions, particularly through community mobilisation and information sharing with security agencies.
What the New Army Battalions Mean for Zamfara
The operationalisation of the three battalions is expected to give the Nigerian Army a wider presence across Bakura, Kaura Namoda and Anka, while allowing troops to respond more quickly to emerging security situations within their respective areas of responsibility.
The Army’s emphasis on intelligence sharing also highlights the importance of collaboration between security forces and local communities in addressing security challenges.
With the new formations now operational, the military is expected to continue working alongside other security agencies and traditional institutions as part of broader efforts to improve security and protect residents across Zamfara State.