The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has vowed to bring an end to the menace of the terror group, Lukarawa.
Speaking to State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu, Oluyede expressed confidence that the group would soon be defeated.
“I am here to reassure Mr. President that I will do my best to make Nigeria better in terms of security,” he said.
He emphasized his commitment to adopting new strategies to achieve significant results in tackling insecurity.
The Lukarawa group, which operates in northern Nigeria, has been a growing threat in recent years.
Emerging in Sokoto State around 2016 or 2017, the group began as a self-defense militia but evolved into a radical faction imposing strict religious laws and controlling local communities.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede revealed that joint military operations with neighboring countries, including Niger Republic, are already yielding positive results.
“We are hitting them hard at the Nigerian end, and once you hit them hard here, they tend to flee to the Niger Republic,” he said.
He highlighted the importance of cross-border cooperation, stating, “Now that Niger Republic is coming on board, that means very soon, Lukarawa will be a thing of the past.”
Oluyede stressed the need for unity among neighboring nations, noting that the activities of Lukarawa and other groups affect the region as a whole.
“We need to work together with neighboring countries because these issues affect them too. By cooperating, we can address the threat more effectively,” he added.
The Army Chief has been proactive in his approach since assuming office.
He has toured the theatres of operation in the northwest and northeast, where he encouraged troops to intensify their efforts against terrorism and banditry.
“I spoke with my officers and soldiers to emphasize the need to end all forms of insecurity in Nigeria,” Oluyede said.
He assured the troops that he plans to do things differently, expecting better results in the fight against insecurity.
The activities of Lukarawa have caused significant tension in parts of northern Nigeria.
Zamfara State, in particular, has witnessed bomb attacks blamed on the group, heightening fear and instability in the region.
The Nigerian Army’s renewed commitment to combating terrorism comes at a critical time.
President Tinubu has made security a top priority for his administration, and Oluyede’s pledge aligns with this vision.
While addressing correspondents, Oluyede reaffirmed his dedication to the President’s directives, saying, “I intend to adopt a different approach to achieve significant results.”
Niger Republic’s involvement is expected to strengthen the regional effort against Lukarawa.
Cross-border collaboration has been a challenge in the past, but recent agreements signal a new era of cooperation.
The Nigerian military’s determination is evident in its ongoing operations, which have pushed many Lukarawa fighters to flee across the border.
However, experts warn that the group may regroup if not tackled decisively.
The history of Lukarawa highlights the complex nature of security challenges in Nigeria.
Initially formed to combat banditry, the group quickly spiraled into extremism, imposing strict laws and gaining notoriety for violent acts.
As tensions rise in affected areas, Nigerians are watching closely to see if the military can deliver on its promises.
The cooperation between Nigeria and Niger Republic offers hope for a more coordinated and effective fight against Lukarawa.
Oluyede’s leadership and his willingness to innovate in the fight against terrorism have been widely praised.
“We cannot afford to let groups like Lukarawa dictate the lives of our people,” he said.
For many, his words are a beacon of hope amid the turmoil.
The Chief of Army Staff’s visit to Aso Rock underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of Nigerians.
With President Tinubu’s support and regional partnerships gaining momentum, there is renewed optimism that the days of Lukarawa may soon be over.
The Nigerian Army’s resolve to end the terror group’s reign is a testament to its dedication to protecting the nation.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede’s promise to adopt a fresh approach marks a turning point in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria.
