The Armed Forces of Nigeria have unveiled a new joint military offensive — Operation Savannah Shield — aimed at dismantling terrorist cells and kidnapping syndicates operating across Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.
The operation was formally activated at the 22 Brigade, Sobi Military Cantonment, Ilorin, by the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede.
“No More Safe Havens”
Describing the mission as a decisive and deliberate offensive, Oluyede warned that criminal elements exploiting forest corridors and remote territories would no longer find refuge.
“Forested enclaves and ungoverned spaces hitherto exploited by terrorists will no longer serve as safe havens,” he declared.
Troops, he said, will carry out sustained clearance operations designed to secure vulnerable communities, safeguard agricultural zones and protect critical infrastructure.
Intelligence-Driven, Multi-Agency Offensive
The defence chief emphasised enhanced collaboration among security agencies and called on residents and traditional leaders to share credible intelligence.
“Security is a shared responsibility,” he noted, urging communities to actively support the operation.
Oversight of the joint theatre has been assigned to Major General Yakubu Yahaya, who will coordinate forces across the operational area.
Kwara Governor Welcomes Deployment
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq described the military deployment as timely, citing growing security concerns in parts of Kwara.
He expressed confidence that the operation would restore public confidence, strengthen rural security and revitalise farming activities affected by banditry and kidnappings.
Military authorities said the launch — attended by senior defence officials and key stakeholders — underscores a coordinated national strategy to confront evolving security threats.
Operation Savannah Shield marks the latest in a series of counterterrorism efforts targeting criminal networks operating along Nigeria’s north-central corridor.
