Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, has charged the Nigerian military to deploy its full capabilities to wipe out bandits threatening lives and property across the state.

Idris made the call on Friday during an unscheduled visit to troops at their camp in Yauri, where he commended the soldiers for their gallantry, professionalism and commitment to duty.

The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing the necessary support and enabling environment for security agencies to effectively discharge their responsibilities.

He described security as a collective responsibility and urged state governments to remain active stakeholders in supporting the Federal Government’s efforts to secure vulnerable communities and restore normalcy to areas affected by banditry.

“The issue of security is the responsibility of all. State governments must be active stakeholders in support of the Federal Government to secure volatile areas, making them safe to allow farmers to go back and cultivate their farms.

“Bandits are trying to embarrass us. They are coming to attack our people. The security agencies must wipe away these bandits, and the capability of the military should come to bear.

“Nigeria’s military has the professional ability, as it has exhibited in peacekeeping operations in other parts of the world. I have confidence in you,” Idris said.

The governor thanked the Chief of Army Staff and the military hierarchy for deploying additional troops to Kebbi to strengthen operations against banditry.

He said the deployment was in response to the state government’s repeated calls for increased military presence in areas facing security challenges.

“I’m happy about your performance. The Chief of Army Staff, supported by the military hierarchy, has answered our prayers by sending you here to Kebbi.

“Your presence will complement the operations of other security services,” he said.

Idris said the Yauri, Shanga and Ngaski axis had continued to experience incursions by bandits from neighbouring Niger, Zamfara and Kwara states.

He commended other security agencies operating in the affected areas, saying the arrival of additional troops would boost their morale and strengthen ongoing efforts to tackle criminal activities.

“The Yauri/Shanga/Ngaski axis is experiencing incursions by bandits from neighbouring states of Niger, Zamfara and Kwara.

“Before your arrival, other security agencies have been alive to their responsibilities. Your coming will boost their morale.

“I’m impressed by your number. I thank the Chief of Army Staff for finding Kebbi worthy to send additional troops to the state,” the governor said.

Earlier, Idris paid homage to the Emir of Yauri, Dr Muhammad Zayyanu Abdullahi, at his palace.

He also commissioned a new Jumu’a Mosque in the Tudun-Gwamna area of Yauri, where he joined other worshippers for the Friday prayers.

The Emir thanked the governor for his continued support, love and concern for the people of Yauri Emirate.