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.