The Governor of Zamfara, Dauda Lawal, has expressed confidence in the ongoing military operations in the North West to bring an end to banditry in the region.
“We are taking this fight to the bandits because we won’t continue to remain defensive. What I have seen so far suggests that the banditry issue will become history, God willing,” he said.
Mr Lawal gave the assurance in Gusau while pledging the continued support of his government to the federal government, during a visit of the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, to Zamfara.
Mr Lawal said his government was supporting the military in its fight with “ten bulletproof buffalo gun trucks,” adding that “Other logistics are also in place and will be made available to the security forces to aid them in fighting banditry.”
According to the governor, “Zamfara is facing many security challenges…we are all out to seek assistance, synergy, and cooperation. We are committed to providing all assistance to the troops.
“If we can address the banditry challenges in Zamfara, 90 percent of the problem would be solved. I appeal to the troops, especially the military, that we need them. I am confident they have what it takes to finish this fight,” Mr Lawal added.
Also speaking, the Minister of Defence thanked the governor for the state government’s continued support to the military operations in the state.
“My visit here is to express the federal government’s commitment to enhance ongoing anti banditry operations in the state and North West region.
“I am appealing for more collaboration from all stakeholders with the federal government to succeed in the fight against banditry activities in the North West and other security challenges in the country.
“I believe the successes of the ongoing operations against bandits in the state are linked to the continued support of Gov. Lawal’s administration,” Mr Badaru said.
Addressing troops of the ‘Operations Fansar Yamma’, the minister urged them to be dedicated, adding that the federal government was confident of defeating security challenges facing the country.
(NAN)
