The Nigerian Army has strengthened security operations in Kebbe Local Government Area of Sokoto State following heightened concerns over the activities of the Lakurawa terrorist group in the area.

The renewed military posture followed a reported attack on Ungushi community, which heightened fears among residents and prompted calls for stronger security around Kebbe town and neighbouring communities.

As part of efforts to address the threat, the General Officer Commanding, 8 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, on Sunday conducted an operational assessment visit to the Forward Operating Base in Kebbe and other affected communities.

The visit was aimed at assessing the security situation and reviewing the operational readiness of troops deployed in the area.

The Army said the assessment underscored its determination to prevent Kebbe and surrounding communities from becoming a safe corridor or operational sanctuary for terrorists operating along the Sokoto-Kebbi axis.

During the visit, Koughna engaged community leaders and residents to hear their concerns and obtain first-hand information on the security situation.

He assured residents that troops remained fully deployed and alert, stressing that the Army would not allow terrorist elements to establish a foothold in the area or threaten the lives, property and livelihoods of residents.

The GOC also warned that security forces would respond swiftly and decisively to emerging threats and prevent terrorist groups from consolidating their presence in Kebbe and neighbouring communities.

Following the assessment, the Army said it readjusted its security architecture around vulnerable areas, particularly communities considered susceptible to terrorist infiltration and attacks.

Koughna urged residents not to succumb to fear or panic, assuring them that security forces were firmly on the ground and committed to protecting the communities.

He, however, stressed that military operations alone could not completely defeat terrorism without the active cooperation of residents.

The GOC therefore appealed to residents, traditional leaders and other stakeholders to provide security agencies with timely and credible intelligence on suspicious movements, unfamiliar persons and other activities capable of threatening the peace of the communities.

According to him, such cooperation is crucial to the early detection, disruption and dismantling of terrorist networks before they can execute their plans.

The Army’s renewed security posture comes amid growing concerns over the activities of the Lakurawa terrorist group in parts of the North-West, particularly communities along the Sokoto-Kebbi border corridor.

Koughna reassured residents that the Army would maintain a strong operational presence in the area and continue to adapt its strategies to emerging threats.

He called on the people of Kebbe to remain vigilant, law-abiding and united with security forces, warning terrorists and criminal elements that the area would not be surrendered to them.

The operational assessment was contained in a statement issued on August 16, 2026, by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA.