Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, says the Nigerian military has neutralised most top bandit commanders and their fighters in the North-West, insisting that only “a few scattered elements” remain.
Matawalle made the claim while visiting the Theatre Command Headquarters shortly after observing Juma’at prayers at the Command Mosque, according to a statement issued in Abuja by his Director of Information, Ibrahim Sule.
He said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA to eliminate the remaining bandit elements and bring an end to years of violent attacks that have devastated parts of the region.
The minister’s remarks come just hours after the Kebbi State Police Command confirmed that at least 25 students of Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, were abducted by heavily armed bandits in a pre-dawn attack.
The assailants reportedly stormed the school around 4 a.m., engaging police personnel in a fierce gun duel. One staff member was killed and another injured, according to Police Public Relations Officer CSP Nafi’u Abubakar Kotarkoshi.
The latest attack adds to growing concerns over the security situation in the Northwest, despite repeated assurances from authorities.
Addressing troops, Matawalle relayed President Tinubu’s commendation for their “patriotism, courage, and remarkable successes” in dismantling bandit networks across the region.
“Most of the key bandit leaders and their foot soldiers have been neutralised through your gallant effort,” he told the soldiers.
“What remains now are a few scattered elements, and the Commander-in-Chief has directed that these remnants must be wiped out completely.”
He added that Tinubu had pledged full logistical, equipment, welfare, and morale support to troops to ensure the mission is completed.
The Minister was received by the Theatre Commander, Major-General Warrah Bello Idris, who briefed him on recent operational achievements, including the neutralisation of high-value targets and the recovery of several communities previously dominated by bandit groups.
Matawalle praised the troops for their resilience and professionalism, describing their efforts as “the bedrock of the gradual return of peace to Zamfara and neighbouring states.”
Idris, in turn, said the minister’s visit demonstrated President Tinubu’s personal commitment to the welfare and operational success of forces fighting in the Northwest.
Speaking to hundreds of officers and soldiers on parade, Matawalle urged them to maintain vigilance and discipline as they push toward what he described as the final phase of counter-banditry operations.
“Your sacrifices will never be in vain,” he said.
“The President is proud of you, the nation is proud of you, and very soon, the people of this region will sleep with their two eyes closed.”