The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops within the 2 Division Area of Responsibility to intensify offensive operations and decisively flush out all criminal elements operating in the area.

 

The directive was given on Monday, December 22, 2025, during his maiden operational visit to the 2 Division, while addressing officers and soldiers at Odugbo Barracks, Ibadan.

 

Commending the troops for their resilience, professionalism and operational effectiveness, the Army Chief praised their efforts in tackling banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the division’s area of responsibility.

 

“I have been thoroughly briefed on your operations and the remarkable successes you have recorded,” Lieutenant General Shaibu said. “I commend your efforts and urge you to sustain the momentum. Go after the kidnappers and other miscreants wherever they are—whether in the bushes, forests or their hideouts—and ensure these criminal activities are reduced to the barest minimum.”

 

The COAS also reaffirmed his commitment to improving the welfare of personnel, disclosing that approvals have been granted for the renovation of existing accommodation as well as the construction of new residential facilities within the barracks.

 

He emphasized that troop morale remains critical to operational success, stressing that welfare is a key pillar of his command philosophy. He further urged officers and soldiers to properly maintain existing accommodation and facilities to ensure a conducive living and operational environment.

 

The visit underscored the Army leadership’s resolve to strengthen security operations and support frontline troops in safeguarding lives and property within the 2 Division area.