Commander 17 Brigade Conducts Maiden Familiarization Visit, Charges Troops To Flush Out Bandits In Katsina State

Commander 17 Brigade Conducts Maiden Familiarization Visit, Charges Troops To Flush Out Bandits In Katsina State

The Commander 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ishaya Ibrahim, has conducted his maiden familiarization visit to operational units under his command in Katsina State, charging troops to intensify efforts to flush out bandits across the state.

The visit was conducted on 2 February 2026, as part of routine operational activities following his assumption of command on 16 January 2026 as the 8th Brigade Commander, aimed at assessing operational readiness, boosting troops’ morale and gaining first-hand knowledge of the brigade’s Areas of Responsibility.

Addressing troops during the inspection, Brigadier General Ibrahim emphasized the need for sustained offensive operations to rid Katsina State of criminal elements, noting that the objective is to ensure that law-abiding citizens can move freely and conduct their legitimate businesses without fear. He commended the troops for their dedication and commitment to duty, assuring them that their welfare would be prioritised under his command as a critical enabler of operational effectiveness. The Brigade Commander further urged personnel to channel their complaints and concerns through the appropriate chain of command, assuring them of prompt attention.

Brigadier General Ibrahim expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W Shaibu, for prioritising troop welfare across operational formations and unit. He also thanked the General Officer Commanding 8 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, for his strategic guidance and leadership.

The familiarization tour covered key operational and civil locations, including Matazu Local Government Area, Malumfashi Forward Observation Base (FOB), Kafur Community and Shama in Bakori Local Government Area. Other locations visited were the Nigerian Correctional Service, Funtua, FOB Funtua and other units under command in Funtua Local Government Area, as well as the Madakari Abdullahi Model Primary School in Faskari Local Government Area.

The maiden visit highlights the Brigade Commander’s resolve to provide effective leadership, enhance operational efficiency and strengthen security across Katsina State.