The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, officially operationalized the 28 Armoured Brigade and Garrison in Birnin Kebbi, alongside the 281 Tank Battalion in Yauri and 381 Artillery Regiment in Kaoje, Kebbi State. Representing the COAS, General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander of Sector 2 Joint Task Force, North West, Major General Bemgba Koughna emphasized that the new formations aim to enhance the Army’s operational capacity, expand its footprint, and improve response times to security threats. 'This initiative aligns with the Nigerian Army’s strategy to optimize force structure and strengthen command and control,' Koughna stated, underscoring the brigade’s role in countering criminal elements and ensuring stability in the region.
Major General Koughna charged the Acting Commander of the 28 Brigade, Colonel Abdullahi Umar, to ensure the unit’s fire-support capabilities and operational effectiveness. He also directed troops to maintain discipline, collaborate with security agencies, and strictly adhere to rules of engagement to protect civilians. The GOC expressed condolences to the Jandutse community following a recent bandit attack that claimed a life, vowing to increase military presence in the area. Residents acknowledged the Army’s efforts, citing improved security as a critical priority for local safety.
The deployment comes amid heightened tensions in Kebbi, where banditry and intercommunal conflicts have displaced thousands. Koughna highlighted the brigade’s mandate to address 'persistent security challenges' while fostering community trust. The move follows parallel initiatives, including the activation of 924 Borno Forest Guards and reviews of the Army’s 2023 operational structure, reflecting a broader push to adapt to evolving threats. 'The military remains committed to safeguarding citizens and upholding constitutional duties,' Koughna reiterated, as units across the North-West prepare for intensified operations.
The operationalization of the 28 Armoured Brigade underscores the Nigerian Army’s strategic focus on localized security solutions. With Kebbi’s security landscape marked by frequent attacks, the new formations aim to provide a more agile and responsive defense. Analysts note that sustained military presence, coupled with community engagement, will be vital to long-term stability. For now, residents in affected areas remain cautiously optimistic about the Army’s ability to curb violence and restore peace in the region.