Reps hail military on anti-insurgency fight successes

The House of Representatives has lauded troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sustained pressure against insurgency and terrorism in trouble spots across the country.

The Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Defence, Babajimi Benson, gave the commendation in Abuja on Wednesday, saying the troops have recorded remarkable achievements in recent times.

“The successes recorded in various operations across the country underscore the bravery, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of our military personnel to safeguarding the nation,” he said in a statement issued in Abuja.

According to him, the feats are a testament to the resilience and sacrifice of the men and women in uniform, who tirelessly work to ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.

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“The recent successes of our armed forces in various operations across the country are highly commendable. These victories not only reflect the strategic prowess of our military leadership but also the dedication and bravery of our soldiers, airmen, and ratings. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their relentless efforts to protect our nation,” he added.

The lawmaker, who represents Ikorodu Federal Constituency in Lagos State, noted that the troops of the Multinational Joint Task Force have continually dealt fatal blows to terrorist groups in the Lake Chad region through a series of daring operations.

“In one such operation conducted on June 15, 2024, several terrorists were neutralized and 34 women and children were rescued from insurgents,” he said.

He continued, “In Abia State’s Ihechiowa community of Arochukwu Local Government Area, the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other security agencies, have impressively intensified their efforts against the Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network.

“Our troops raided and cleared IPOB/ESN camps in the Umudi Forest and Umuaku areas of Umunneochi Local Government Area thereby liberating the communities from the clutches of miscreants and terrorists.”

He also added that on June 15, 2024, the Nigerian Navy Ship Soroh discovered and deactivated an illegal refining site in the Isonogbene area of Brass Local Government Area, Bayelsa State, stressing that the site contained unspecified quantities of stolen crude oil and illegally refined AGO.

“The Nigerian Air Force carried out impressive airstrikes on June 17, 2024, in Katsina State, resulting in the elimination of over 80 terrorists. These strikes, along with previous ones in various parts of the North West and North East have significantly disrupted terrorist activities and enhanced the safety of several communities for their residents,” Benson added.

Accordingly, the All Progressives Congress chieftain assured the nation’s armed forces of the readiness of the parliament to provide the necessary support to enable them to succeed in their mission of safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians.

“The House of Representatives remains committed to supporting our Armed Forces in every possible way. We understand the importance of providing adequate resources and legislative backing to ensure the effectiveness of our military operations. Rest assured, we will continue to prioritize the welfare, training, and equipment needs of our troops to maintain their operational readiness and efficiency,” he said.