The Nigerian Army has launched a fresh counter-insurgency operation to clear out bandits and other criminal groups from the Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding areas in Kwara and Niger states.
The operation, codenamed Park Strike Four, was confirmed by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division, Major-General Obinna Onubogu, during a briefing with journalists on Saturday in Kaiama, Kwara State.
According to Maj.-Gen. Onubogu, troops have been deployed into the forest under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff. He said the soldiers are determined to restore law and order in the region, which has seen rising threats from armed groups.
He explained that the mission covers a distance of at least 90 kilometres, starting from Kemanji deep into the Kainji forest. The operation is being carried out in collaboration with other security agencies and local communities to boost its effectiveness.
“Our troops are working tirelessly and will not rest until the park and surrounding areas are safe again,” Onubogu said, urging locals to support security efforts.
The Kainji Lake National Park, a vast reserve straddling Kwara and Niger states, has in recent years become a hideout for bandits and other criminals.
