The General Officer Commanding, 2 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj Gen Auwalu Mahmuda, has charged troops deployed around Old Oyo National Park to maintain pressure on criminal elements and deny them freedom of movement in the area.
Mahmuda gave the charge on Wednesday when he visited the Forward Operating Base in Igbeti, Olorunsogo Local Government Area of Oyo State. In a statement issued in Ibadan by the Acting Deputy Director, 2 Division Army Public Relations, Danjuma Danjuma, the GOC said he had been monitoring operational developments in the national park and its surroundings, including the efforts and achievements of the troops.
He directed the soldiers to sustain their operational tempo and ensure the park and nearby communities are cleared of bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements. He also stressed the need for the troops to dominate the area so that criminals cannot operate freely.
According to Mahmuda, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen W. Shaibu, was pleased with the troops’ resilience and had urged them to intensify their efforts.
The GOC also commended other security agencies and vigilantes for their support, saying their cooperation had demonstrated effective operational synergy among security stakeholders.
On arrival, he was received by the Commander, 2 Division Garrison, Brig Gen Emmanuel Azenda, and the Commander of the newly established 8 Brigade, Oyo, Brig Gen Austin Obochi.
