COAS Orders Relentless Offensive Against Bandits, Criminals in 2 Division AOR

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division to intensify offensive operations against bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements within their Area of Responsibility.

The directive was given on Monday, 22 December 2025, during the COAS’ maiden operational visit to the 2 Division at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan, where he addressed officers and soldiers of the formation.

Lt Gen Shaibu commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness in tackling banditry, kidnapping and related crimes across the division’s area. He said he had been fully briefed on their operations and expressed satisfaction with the successes recorded so far.

“I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded,” the Army Chief said. “I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum. Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

The COAS also reiterated his commitment to improving the welfare of personnel, disclosing that approvals have been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation and the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks. He stressed that troop morale is critical to operational success and remains a key priority under his command philosophy.

He further urged officers and soldiers to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment.

The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to sustain pressure on criminal elements and enhance security within the 2 Division Area of Responsibility.