Nigerian Army Chief Confident About Eradicating Insurgent Group ‘Lakurawa’.
Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has expressed confidence that the insurgent group Lakurawa will soon be eradicated. He credited this optimism to strengthened cooperation with neighbouring countries and the adoption of fresh strategies by the Nigerian Army to address emerging security threats.
Speaking to State House correspondents after a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Monday, General Oluyede reaffirmed his commitment to improving Nigeria’s security. “I am here to reassure Mr President that I will do my best to make Nigeria better in terms of security,” he said. “I intend to explore doing things differently, which will lead to better results.”
The Army Chief also provided updates from his recent visits to military formations in the Northwest and Northeast, where he engaged with officers and soldiers. He emphasised the urgency of tackling insecurity and urged troops to deliver better results in their operations.
Strengthened Regional Collaboration
Addressing the cross-border activities of Lakurawa, General Oluyede highlighted the importance of collaboration with neighbouring Niger Republic. He revealed that joint efforts are underway to prevent insurgents from fleeing across borders. “We are striking them on the Nigerian side, and what usually happens is that they flee to the Niger Republic. Now that the Niger Republic is coming on board, very soon, Lakurawa will be a thing of the past,” he stated.
Call for Innovative Strategies
Following his formal assumption of command as the 24th Chief of Army Staff, General Oluyede urged commanders to adopt innovative approaches to combat emerging threats. Addressing Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters, he emphasised the importance of staying ahead in the face of fluid security challenges.
In a statement by Army spokesman Major General Onyema Nwachukwu, the COAS reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive leadership and collaboration. He assured troops of the necessary support to combat terrorism and insurgency, especially in the North East.
General Oluyede commended officers and soldiers for their dedication during the solemn period leading to the burial of his predecessor, the late Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, and pledged to build on his legacy.
The Chief of Army Staff called on commanders to develop creative solutions to Nigeria’s security issues, ensuring the Army remains effective in addressing the nation’s evolving challenges.
A New Era in Nigeria’s Security Operations
With a renewed focus on innovation, collaboration, and proactive strategies, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede’s leadership signals a strengthened resolve to confront insecurity and safeguard the nation’s peace and stability.
