Ilorin: Determined to restore peace across volatile communities, Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Olufemi Oluyede on Thursday launched the Joint Task Force’s Operation Savannah Shield, a coordinated military initiative targeting banditry and insurgent threats in Kwara State and adjoining parts of Niger.
During the flag-off at Sobi Cantonment Parade Ground, Ilorin, Oluyede described the operation as a proactive kinetic response to kidnapping and related crimes.
He said troops would sweep through Kainji National Park to dislodge terrorist networks entrenched within forested areas.
Oluyede emphasised the seriousness of the operation, stating during his speech, “We officially launch this Joint Task Force operation, underscoring our collective resolve to restore peace and protect lives in affected communities.
Expanding on the need for a coordinated approach, he added, “The movement of terrorists in parts of Kwara and Niger has raised serious concern and requires a comprehensive solution.”
He said Operation Savannah Shield is designed to protect lives and property, dismantle kidnapping and criminal groups, secure major routes, remove terrorist bases, and restore safety throughout affected regions.
“This operation will rely on intelligence to detect threats, prioritise the safety of communities, and coordinate with relevant security agencies to tackle kidnapping, banditry, and other violent crimes impacting Kwara and Niger.
He further noted, “Our synergy will ensure unity of effort, optimal resource use and sustained operational momentum,” Oluyede stated.
He said special attention would focus on forested and ungoverned spaces, especially around Kainji Lake National Park, used as transit and staging grounds by criminals.
Assuring residents of the operation’s duration and commitment, he said, “Let me assure residents this is not a temporary surge but a structured and sustained campaign.
He explained, “We will combine kinetic and non-kinetic measures, including patrols, targeted operations and community engagement, to deny terrorists freedom and win public trust.”
Oluyede urged traditional rulers, youth leaders and stakeholders to support the operation with credible intelligence and cooperation.
Oluyede concluded, “Security is a shared responsibility. Together, we will reclaim every community from fear and criminality.”
Also speaking at the event, Kwara Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq thanked the defence chief for his intervention and commitment to tackling insecurity.
Expressing his appreciation, AbdulRazaq stated, “The deployment of officers to Kwara North and South, and parts of Niger, is a great relief to our people.
He continued, “We appreciate the vast coverage of this operation. The security situation has improved considerably.”
