President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army Battalion in Omu Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State.
The new military formation would strengthen security operations and improve the response capacity of security agencies across the state.
Meanwhile, Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has described the move as a major boost in combating banditry, terrorism and other security threats.
AbdulRazaq made the remarks in a statement on Tuesday, July 21 by his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood AbdulRafiu Agboola.
The governor also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for promptly approving the state’s request for increased military presence.
“Specifically, I express our appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu for the swiftness with which he graciously processed our request for more hands to strengthen the presence of the Army in the state,” the governor said.
AbdulRazaq further acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and other security agencies, including the military, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force, for their ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.
He thanked President Tinubu for fulfilling what he described as another commitment to the people of Kwara State, expressing confidence that the new battalion would significantly enhance security across the state.
“On behalf of the people and government of our state, I wholeheartedly thank Mr. President for yet another promise kept to the state. We are confident that the new battalion will greatly strengthen counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various theatres,” AbdulRazaq said.
The governor also praised ongoing intelligence-driven and joint security operations aimed at restoring peace and securing communities across the state.
“Of particular note are the other discreet, multi-agency efforts of government to stamp out kidnappings, free all victims, and clear all unwanted elements from our forests,” he added.
