The Commander, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General SA Jimoh, has called on traditional rulers in Kaduna State to strengthen their collaboration with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to help tackle security threats in their communities.
In a post by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Babatunde Zubairu, on the Army’s X handle on Thursday, Jimoh said he made the call during courtesy visits to the Agwatyap, Paramount Ruler of Atyap Chiefdom, and Agwam Bajju II, Paramount Ruler of Bajju Chiefdom, as part of his visit to the newly established 97 Infantry Battalion in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna State.
The commander stressed the importance of cooperation between the military, traditional institutions and local communities in maintaining peace and security.
He said, “The support and cooperation of traditional rulers are vital to our collective efforts to maintain peace and security. Timely and credible information from local communities will assist security agencies in preventing and responding effectively to security threats.”
Jimoh also emphasised the need for sustained engagement between the Nigerian Army and the host communities to promote public confidence and strengthen the security architecture of the area.
“Peace and security can be achieved more effectively when security agencies and local communities work together. We must continue to build mutual trust and strengthen the relationship between the military and the people we serve,” he added.
During the visit, Jimoh assessed the operational readiness, administrative activities, and overall preparedness of the 97 Infantry Battalion, a unit under 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army.
The visit commenced with an inspection of the Quarter Guard, after which the Commander received a briefing from the Commanding Officer, 97 Infantry Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel RR Gideon, on the battalion’s operational activities, administrative arrangements and progress since its establishment.
Addressing troops deployed to Samaru Kataf, Jimoh charged them to remain vigilant, disciplined and professional in the discharge of their duties.
He said, “You must remain committed, vigilant and disciplined at all times. Professionalism, operational alertness and strict adherence to military ethics are essential to the successful accomplishment of your missions.”
The Commander further urged the troops to remain focused and proactive in addressing security challenges within their area of responsibility.
“Remain alert and prepared to respond to emerging security threats. Your conduct and dedication to duty are critical to achieving our operational objectives and earning the confidence of the communities you serve,” he told the troops.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Commander to assess the battalion’s operational preparedness while reinforcing the importance of effective leadership, troop discipline and community engagement.
The establishment of the 97 Infantry Battalion underscores the Nigerian Army’s efforts to expand its operational presence, enhance its capacity to respond to emerging security threats and strengthen peace and security in Kaduna State and its environs.