By Friday Idachaba, Lokoja
The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 2 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen. Auwalu Mahmuda, has charged troops in Kogi State to maintain relentless pressure on criminal elements following their recent success in rescuing 21 abducted persons, including 15 NYSC members.
Mahmuda gave the directive during his maiden operational tour of formations and units under the division, including the 12 Brigade Area of Responsibility, from September 2 to 4.
He commended the troops for the successful rescue operation, saying their sustained activities had helped suppress criminality and improve security in Kogi and adjoining states.
The GOC said the progress recorded by the troops should not lead to complacency, urging them to remain vigilant and deny criminals the opportunity to regain operational freedom.
Kogi’s Strategic Security Role
Speaking at Chari Maigumeri Barracks, Lokoja, after receiving a briefing from the Brigade Commander, Brig.-Gen. Kasim Umar Sidi, Mahmuda described Kogi as a strategic security corridor connecting northern Nigeria with the eastern and southern regions.
He said the state’s location made effective security operations critical to the safety of people, businesses and economic activities across several parts of the country.
At the headquarters of 21 Battalion, Ayegba, Dekina Local Government Area, Mahmuda again praised the troops for their resilience and commitment to duty.
He said their operational exploits had contributed to restoring stability in Kogi East and enhancing the reputation of the Nigerian Army.
GOC Warns Against Indiscipline
Mahmuda urged the troops to maintain high operational readiness and deepen cooperation with other security agencies and relevant stakeholders.
He reminded them that discipline remained fundamental to military effectiveness and directed them to uphold the core values of the Nigerian Army in line with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu.
The GOC also warned personnel against substance abuse, irresponsible use of social media and other acts capable of undermining discipline and operational effectiveness.
He urged the troops to remain professional, vigilant and committed to their constitutional responsibilities as they sustain operations against criminal elements in the state.