By Sabiu Abdullahi
The Acting Commander of the 1 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Colonel Joseph Umaru, has ordered commanders and troops under the brigade’s area of responsibility in Kebbi State to step up intelligence-led operations against bandits and other criminal groups.
Umaru issued the directive during a familiarisation tour of military units across the state between September 8 and 9, 2026.
The Nigerian Army disclosed this in a post on its official X account on Thursday.
The commander called on the troops to improve intelligence gathering and information sharing while strengthening collaboration with sister security agencies, local authorities and other stakeholders.
He said such cooperation would help restrict the activities of criminals and prevent them from operating freely within the state.
Umaru also directed commanders to maintain coordinated and proactive operations. He reminded the troops to remain professional, comply strictly with the rules of engagement and protect civilians during their operations.
The Acting Brigade Commander further highlighted the need to prioritise the welfare, motivation, training and professional development of personnel.
He urged commanders to embrace the Chief of Army Staff’s “Soldiers First” mantra.
Umaru said properly led, motivated and equipped troops would be in a stronger position to maintain operational pressure and successfully carry out their assigned responsibilities.
As part of the tour, he reviewed the operational readiness of formations under the brigade and examined the challenges affecting their operations.
The units visited included the 223 Light Tank Battalion in Zuru, the COAS Intervention Battalion III in Sakaba and 1 Battalion in Birnin Kebbi.
