Kebbi Security: Nigerian Army Operationalizes 28 Armoured Brigade to Tackle Banditry
BIRNIN KEBBI, Nigeria—In a strategic move to curb banditry and bolster regional stability, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has formally operationalized the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi.
The security expansion also features the activation of two key supporting units: the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and the 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje.
Together, the deployments represent a concerted effort by the military command to protect vulnerable communities and eliminate criminal elements across Kebbi State.
The COAS, who was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, stated that the establishment of the Brigade is part of an ongoing drive to optimize the Nigerian Army’s force structure.
According to Major General Koughna, the deployment will significantly expand the military’s operational footprint, strengthen local command and control, and drastically improve response times to security emergencies throughout the North-West region.
During the operationalization ceremony, the GOC charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to leverage the new deployment to deliver critical fire support capabilities. He emphasized that the new units must enhance the overall operational effectiveness of the division and decisively address evolving security challenges in the state.
Major General Koughna reminded the troops that achieving lasting peace requires unwavering discipline, tactical focus, and seamless synergy with alternative security stakeholders. He urged personnel to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, strictly adhere to the established Rules of Engagement (ROE), and prioritize the protection of law-abiding citizens.
Amid the strategic rollout, the GOC visited and commiserated with the residents of the Jandutse community, which recently suffered a tragic bandit attack resulting in the loss of a local resident.
Assuring the grieving community of their safety, Major General Koughna promised an increased, visible military presence to prevent future incursions. In response, local leaders and residents expressed gratitude to the GOC and the Nigerian Army for their continuous efforts to restore peace and security to Kebbi State
