...Military killed 1,770 terrorists, arrested over 3,000 in North-West

In an impressive demonstration of military resolve, the Nigerian Armed Forces have reported the elimination of at least 1,770 terrorists and the arrest of over 3,000 individuals linked to criminal activities across five key states in North-West Nigeria over the past three years. Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, shared these significant figures on Thursday during a military sensitisation event held in Katsina, targeting residents of the Batsari and Dutsin-Ma Local Government Areas.

The event, dubbed the "Military Diplomacy Campaign to Communities and Cultural Groups Across Nigeria," aims to foster collaboration between the military and local communities to enhance national security. General Musa was represented by Brigadier General Dahiru Abu-Mahawashi, Deputy Director of Defence Media Operations, who elaborated on the military's efforts in combating insecurity in the region.

In addition to the personnel losses inflicted on terrorist groups, the military has successfully seized over 1,000 assorted weapons and approximately 12,000 rounds of ammunition from these criminals. During various operations across Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States, more than 2,515 victims have been rescued from the clutches of terror.

"More than just a military fight, this is a collective battle for peace that involves all of us," General Musa emphasized. He called for community members to report suspicious activities, offer protection to one another, and guide the youth. "Peace does not thrive in silence; it flourishes in unity. Let us communicate, listen, and forgive one another. Without forgiveness, there can be no healing," he stated.

The military's recent successes prompted a specially organized sensitization program for the residents of Batsari and Dutsin-Ma, reinforcing the army's commitment to restoring peace throughout frontline regions. Community members shared that negotiations with repentant criminals had positively impacted certain areas, allowing for the restoration of peace in some communities.

However, concerns persist among residents. Mallam Lawal Rabi’u, a local, voiced anxiety regarding ongoing attacks by bandits from neighboring local government areas where peace dialogues have not occurred. His sentiment highlights the ongoing challenges in stabilizing the region, underlining the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address the remnants of insecurity.

As the military continues its operations against terrorism, the collaboration between security forces and local communities has become increasingly crucial in the quest for lasting peace in North-West Nigeria.