The Chief of Army Staff, Lt-Gen. Tukur Buratai; has on Wednesday
embarked on an operational visits of troops’ locations in Sambisa
Forest of Northeast.
According to him, the visits were to further raise troops’ morale and
professionalism of fighting Boko Haram insurgency to restore peace in
region.
While addressing soldiers at the Super Camp 1 Molai, he said: “Today’s
interactions with you in front lines of Forest, was to appreciate your
‘fighting spirit and professionalism’ to end the decade long theatre
of war,” adding that they’re to invigorate the fighting spirit and
hasten the defeat of terrorists in their Forest hideouts.
At the Special Forces Super Camp 12 in Chabbol Community of Maiduguri,
Buratai told the soldiers of his appreciations for their commitments,
dedication and sacrifices to the nation.
“President Muhammadu Buhari, is always with you in the ongoing
fighting spirit to end this war for peace,” stating that troops are
already committed and dedicated to defeat the terrorists hibernating
in Sambisa Forest.
He also reiterated the need for officers and men of the Army to
reinvigorate their efforts and to end the insurgency that had claimed
many lives and property.
He therefore, directed troops to train, prepare adequately and brace
up for final ‘onslaught and eventual defeat’ of Boko Haram and Islamic
State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
“Your additional operational needs would be provided in a couple of
days,” he pledged, adding that the Army had already taken delivery of
more fighting equipment procured by Federal Government.
His words: “Gentlemen, I’m aware you have conducted many successful
operations, you have also suffered setbacks especially in recent
times,” warning that they ensure that it is not repeated.
Continued: “You should prepare adequately for the next phase of the
counter insurgency operation in our beloved country.
“Other issues expected of you will be communicated to you by your
respective Commanders soon.”
Other military posts visited, include Tamsu Ngamdu in Mafa Council
Area of Borno state and Forward Operating Base at Alau Dam, located
east of Maiduguri metropolis.
Similarly, the Buratai patrol went through Maigilari Forest in the
east of Tamsu Ngamdua in the southwest of the same Mafa Local
Government Area.
These areas, according to him; are generally the terrorists’ main
forest routes and directions that lead to Maiduguri to severally
attack communities in the outskirts of metropolis.
Buratai also inspected military stores, hardwares and other assets
including artillery, mortar, anti-aircraft guns, multi barrel
launchers, armoured personnel carriers and many gun trucks among
others in the visited super camps.
