The Nigerian Army has significantly expanded its operational footprint across Kwara and Niger states with the establishment of new Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) and patrol bases. This strategic move aims to dismantle criminal networks operating within forest reserves, border communities, and remote settlements.

Brigadier-General Nicholas Rume, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, disclosed these developments during the 2025 Nigerian Army Social Activities (NASA) held over the weekend at the Sobi Cantonment in Ilorin. He explained that the brigade has sustained a series of coordinated clearance operations including the recently concluded Operations Park Strike IV and V which targeted criminal enclaves in the Kainji Lake National Park and Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as Kaiama and Baruten in Kwara.

To maintain pressure on bandits and kidnappers, the Army has established new Forward Operating Bases in Patigi and Ilemona. These are supported by newly created patrol bases in Babasango, Gada, and Daban Lema. Brigadier-General Rume noted that these bases are designed to enhance rapid response and complement ongoing efforts in neighbouring states.

He further highlighted that Operation Fansan Yamma is currently active, focusing on flushing out armed groups and restoring peace to rural communities. "These bases complement our operations in neighbouring states and enhance our response to security threats," Rume stated, reassuring residents of the military's commitment to ending the menace of terrorism and armed robbery in the North Central zone.

Representing Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq at the event, the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier-General Saliu Bello (retd.), commended the 22 Armoured Brigade for its proactive stance, noting that the collaboration between the state and the military has already yielded positive security outcomes.

Daily Trust reports that the event is an annual gathering that brings together officers, soldiers and their families to promote unity, boost morale and review operational performance while celebrating Nigeria's cultural diversity.

Over 10 groups from different Nigerian tribes performed during the event which also featured a tug-of-war between the barrack women and female officers.

Rume disclosed that operations currently being prosecuted by the brigade include Operation Fansan Yamma, Operation Harmony in Kwara State, and the recently concluded Operation Park Strike IV and V.

The Park Strike operations, he said, covered Kainji Lake National Park and surrounding villages in Borgu Local Government Area of Niger State, as well as Kaiama and Baruten local government areas of Kwara State.

According to him, the operations are part of a broader strategy to deny criminal groups freedom of movement and dismantle their operational bases across forest corridors linking the North Central and South West.

To sustain the momentum, the Army has established new Forward Operating Bases in Patigi and Ilemona, alongside patrol bases in Babasango, Gada and Daban Lema.

Rume said the bases were meant to enhance rapid response, intelligence gathering and sustained presence in flashpoint communities.

"These bases complement our operations in neighbouring states and strengthen our ability to respond swiftly to security threats," he said.

He explained that the intensified operations were necessitated by the rising threat of banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and armed robbery across parts of the North Central zone.

The brigade commander assured residents that the Army remains fully committed to working with other security agencies to restore lasting peace in the region.

Speaking, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State commended the military for its sustained efforts in curbing insecurity.

Represented by his Special Adviser on Security Matters, Brigadier General Saliu Tunde Bello (Retired), the governor said the Army's operations have played a critical role in protecting lives, farmlands and local economies.

He described the collaboration between the state government and the military as productive and impactful.

AbdulRazaq pledged continued support for the Armed Forces through logistics and operational cooperation.

He also praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their leadership and commitment to national security.