Nigerian Army Reinforces Kebbe Security as Lakurawa Threat Intensifies

The Nigerian Army has stepped up security operations in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State following renewed concerns over attacks allegedly linked to the Lakurawa terrorist group.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 8 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, visited the Forward Operating Base in Kebbe and surrounding communities on Sunday as part of an operational assessment aimed at strengthening the military’s response to the security threat.

The visit followed reports of a renewed attack on Ungushi community in Kebbe LGA, prompting the Army to reassess its security arrangements around vulnerable communities along the Sokoto-Kebbi border.

During the assessment, Koughna met with community leaders and residents to hear their concerns and obtain first-hand information on the security situation.

The Army said the GOC reassured residents that troops remained deployed and on heightened alert to protect lives and property in the affected communities.

Koughna also assured residents that the military would respond swiftly to emerging threats and prevent terrorist elements from establishing safe havens in the area.

The Army urged residents to remain calm and continue with their legitimate activities, stressing that security personnel were actively deployed across the affected areas.

The GOC further appealed to residents to strengthen cooperation with the military by providing credible and timely intelligence on suspicious movements or activities.

According to the Army, community cooperation remains essential to detecting and disrupting terrorist networks before they can carry out attacks.

The latest deployment comes amid growing concerns over the activities of Lakurawa, an armed group that has been associated with insecurity in parts of northwestern Nigeria, particularly communities close to the country’s border with Niger.

The Army said its operational adjustments are intended to prevent further infiltration and strengthen the protection of vulnerable border communities.

The security situation in Kebbe remains under close monitoring as troops continue efforts to contain the threat and maintain stability across the affected areas.