The Acting Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has arrived in Sokoto for his first operational visit to the 8th Division’s area of responsibility. This visit aims to boost morale and coordinate responses to emerging security threats, including the recent rise of the Lakurawa terror group in the North-West region.
During his visit, Lt. Gen. Oluyede plans to meet with the Sultan of Sokoto and engage with local stakeholders, underscoring the Army’s commitment to regional stability. He will also address troops involved in Operation Fasan Yamma, an ongoing anti-terror operation in the northwest.
Rise of the Lakurawa Terror Group
This visit follows recent announcements from the Defence Headquarters about the Lakurawa, a new terror group operating across five local government areas in Sokoto and Kebbi states. The Defence Media Operations spokesman, Major General Edward Buba, explained that Lakurawa militants have infiltrated from Mali and Niger following regional instability, including recent political upheavals in Niger. Their presence has intensified insecurity in Nigeria’s northwest.
Nigeria’s Strategic Response
The Armed Forces of Nigeria are actively addressing the Lakurawa threat, aiming to prevent further destabilization. General Buba emphasized that the Lakurawa group is affiliated with Sahel-based terrorists, exacerbating the region’s security landscape. The Nigerian military also recently declared nine terrorists wanted for their involvement in these escalated threats.
This strategic visit by Lt. Gen. Oluyede underscores the Army’s resolve to bolster its efforts in neutralizing emerging terror threats and securing the North-West region.
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