Index to Nigerian Newspapers

The Federal Government has initiated Operation Savannah Shield, a multi-agency security operation aimed at addressing the rising insecurity in Kwara State and parts of Niger State. Launched by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq with military leaders present, the operation responds to recent terrorist and bandit attacks in the Kaiama area and surrounding communities. The governor emphasized its importance for both national and food security, given the affected regions' role in farming. The Chief of Defence Staff highlighted that the operation is proactive and intelligence-driven, focusing on dismantling criminal networks and restoring order. It will involve a joint task force from the Army, Navy, and Air Force and is expected to implement both kinetic and non-kinetic measures, while seeking community collaboration for effective intelligence sharing. Security experts attribute the increased violence to spillover effects from neighboring regions and exploitation of local forests by criminal groups.

At least 30 people were killed in separate attacks by bandits in Katsina and Kwara states on Tuesday. In Katsina, 20 villagers were reported dead in Doma community, where bandits attacked without resistance, burning homes and vehicles. The Chairman of the local government highlighted this incident as a deadly reprisal attack, marking the first of its kind in five months. Security operatives were allegedly unable to intervene in time. In Kwara, 10 villagers were killed during an assault on Woro and Nuku communities, with attackers suspected to be based in the nearby Borgu National Park. The Kwara Governor condemned the assaults as cowardly and linked them to ongoing security operations. He assured that security agencies would intensify measures to prevent further violence.