Abuja – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate deployment of an Army battalion to Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State in response to a deadly overnight attack on the Worro community by suspected Boko Haram terrorists.
The presidential directive, announced on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, also includes the appointment of a dedicated field commander and the launch of a new military operation codenamed Operation Savanna Shield.
The operation is aimed at containing the attackers, neutralising the immediate threat, and providing enhanced security for vulnerable communities in the affected axis and surrounding areas.
President Tinubu strongly condemned the assault, describing it as a “cowardly and beastly” act of terrorism. He emphasised that the assailants deliberately targeted defenceless civilians, killing several residents who reportedly resisted attempts by the attackers to indoctrinate them with extremist ideology.
In his statement, the President expressed deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, the traditional leadership, the people, and the government of Kwara State. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of those who lost their lives in the attack.
To support the affected residents, President Tinubu has instructed relevant federal ministries, departments, agencies, and Kwara State authorities to collaborate swiftly in providing emergency relief materials, medical assistance, psychosocial support, and other forms of humanitarian aid to the displaced and traumatised victims.
The President further directed security and intelligence agencies to intensify efforts to track down the perpetrators, bring them to justice, and ensure that those responsible face the full weight of the law.
Reassuring residents of Kaiama and neighbouring communities, President Tinubu affirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to restoring full security in the area and preventing any recurrence of such heinous attacks.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies are fully mobilised to protect our citizens and defend every inch of our territory. No part of this country will be left at the mercy of terrorists or bandits,” he stated.
The deployment of the Army battalion and the launch of Operation Savanna Shield mark a significant escalation in the federal response to what appears to be an extension of terrorist activities into parts of North Central Nigeria previously considered relatively calm compared to the Northeast.
The Worro community attack has heightened anxiety among residents in Kwara State’s border areas, many of whom have called for stronger and more visible military presence to deter future incursions.
Security analysts note that the incursion into Kaiama LGA raises fresh concerns about possible coordination or movement of Boko Haram elements southward from their traditional bases in the Lake Chad region, potentially exploiting porous borders and ungoverned spaces.
President Tinubu’s swift order and the codenaming of the operation signal a determination to nip the threat in the bud and reassure communities that the government is responding decisively.
As security forces move to secure the area, the Federal Government has urged residents to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and report any suspicious activities or movements that could aid ongoing operations.
Further updates on the situation in Kaiama and the progress of Operation Savanna Shield are expected in the coming days as the deployed battalion establishes forward operating positions and begins active patrols.
The President reiterated that the fight against terrorism remains a top national priority and assured Nigerians that no effort will be spared to safeguard lives, property, and the unity of the country.
