The Nigerian Army has activated the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi as part of efforts to strengthen security operations and improve response to threats in Kebbi State and the North-West.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, also operationalised the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje.
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, represented the COAS during the activation.
Koughna said the new formations were established to expand the Army’s operational presence and improve command and control.
According to him, the move would also reduce response times to security threats and enhance the protection of vulnerable communities in the region.
He charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to deploy the formation’s fire support capabilities to support ongoing security operations in Kebbi State, particularly against criminal elements and other threats.
Koughna said sustained security would require discipline, tactical focus and effective coordination among security agencies and other stakeholders.
He urged troops to maintain professionalism, comply with the Rules of Engagement and protect law-abiding citizens while carrying out their constitutional duties.
During the visit, Koughna commiserated with residents of Jandutse community over the recent death of a resident in a bandit attack.
He assured the community of increased military presence to improve the safety of residents and protect communities across the state.
The residents expressed appreciation to the GOC for his efforts to improve security in Kebbi.
The Army said the activation of the formations was part of its broader efforts to optimise its force structure and strengthen security operations in the North-West.
