The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops within the 2 Division Area of Responsibility to intensify offensive operations to decisively eliminate bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements in the region.
The directive was issued on Monday, December 22, 2025, during General Shaibu’s maiden operational visit to Odugbo Barracks in Ibadan.
The order was confirmed in a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
Addressing officers and soldiers, the COAS charged the troops to maintain their momentum and pursue miscreants into their most remote hideouts.
“Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are, whether in the bushes, forests, or their hideouts,” General Shaibu stated.
“Ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”
While commending the troops for their resilience and professionalism, the Army Chief noted that he had been thoroughly briefed on the “remarkable successes” already recorded by the Division.
In addition to operational orders, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized that troop welfare remains a cornerstone of his command philosophy.
He announced that approvals have been granted for the construction of new residential facilities and the renovation of existing accommodation within the barracks to boost morale.
The COAS concluded by urging personnel to maintain the upgraded facilities, noting that a conducive living environment is essential for sustained operational effectiveness.
