By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd), OFR, on Wednesday 18 February 2026, paid his maiden visit to Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA (HQ JTF OPFY).
On arrival at the Headquarters, the Honourable Minister was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General WB Idris, alongside the General Officer Commanding 8 Division/Commander Sector 2 OPFY, the Commander 1 Brigade, and the Commander, Nigerian Air Force Quick Response Group (NAF QRG).
The visit followed the commissioning of newly procured Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) acquired by the Zamfara State Government to strengthen ongoing security operations in Zamfara State and the wider North-West theatre.
Addressing troops and officers during the visit, the Honourable Minister reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing operational capacity through the provision of modern combat enablers and force multipliers. He noted that the induction of the new platforms would significantly boost mobility, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and rapid response capabilities within the theatre of operations.
The Minister commended the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and sustained offensive posture against criminal elements, urging them to remain resolute, disciplined, and mission-focused in the discharge of their constitutional mandate of safeguarding lives and property.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Major General WB Idris, expressed appreciation to the Federal Government and the Governor of Zamfara State for their continued support, stating that the newly commissioned combat enablers would further consolidate operational gains and accelerate ongoing efforts to restore lasting peace and stability across Zamfara State.
The visit underscores the strategic resolve of the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces of Nigeria to decisively degrade all threats to national security and ensure a safe and secure environment for all citizens.
