Brig. General Omopariola led 17 Brigade Celebrates Achievements in Battle Against Terrorism and Banditry
By Sola Akingboye, December 11, 2024
Addressing media men on December 11, 2024, Brigadier General B.O. Omopariola, the Commander of the 17 Brigade, highlighted the Brigade’s impressive accomplishments in the ongoing war against terrorism and banditry, particularly in the troubled regions of Katsina State.
On the arrival of a delegation of Defence Correspondents at the Brigade’s headquarters in Katsina, the Commander was keen to assess the Brigade’s commitment and efficacy in enhancing security across North West Nigeria. The delegation was led by Group Captain I.A. Bukar from the Directorate of Defence Media Operations (DMO) at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, accompanied by Lt Colonel A.I. Shittu from the 78 Brigade Headquarters in Sokoto, who played an essential role in coordinating the media tour from the moment they touched down at the Sultan Abubakar III International Airport in Sokoto.
During the insightful briefing, Brigadier General Omopariola elaborated on the Brigade’s extensive efforts to combat terrorism and banditry, emphasizing their strategic operations in Katsina State and its neighbouring territories. He painted a vivid picture of the Brigade’s operational triumphs in significantly diminishing terrorist activities and enhancing safety throughout the North West region, showcasing their unwavering resolve despite encountering formidable challenges, including shortages of personnel and operational resources.
“The operations executed by the Brigade have been pivotal in addressing the threats posed by terrorist factions, providing vital assistance to local communities, and reinstating a sense of stability in areas previously marred by violence,” asserted General Omopariola. He detailed the Brigade’s meticulously organized air and ground missions, which led to the neutralization of numerous terrorist operatives, the dismantling of their camps, and the seizure of critical arms and equipment. This relentless commitment has also culminated in the successful rescue of 230 individuals who had been kidnapped and the recovery of 342 heads of livestock, reinstating them to their rightful owners.
The Brigade has diligently worked to fortify security along the northern borders of Katsina State, forging collaborative efforts with other security forces, including the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Nigeria Police (NP), and the Department of State Services (DSS). General Omopariola noted that there have been significant achievements in securing border regions adjacent to the Niger Republic as well as in states such as Zamfara, Kano, and Kaduna.
In appreciation, Group Captain I.A. Bukar expressed heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the visiting delegation and the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba. He commended the steadfast dedication and resilience of the 17 Brigade under challenging circumstances and recognized their unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region, highlighting the importance of their collaborative efforts in this vital mission.
