Gov AbdulRazaq Thanks President Tinubu as CDS Flags Off Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara: “Big Relief,” CDS Seeks Public Support
Operation Savannah Shield, a robust multi-agency military offensive aimed at decisively routing “all enemies of the state” across Kwara and neighboring regions, was officially flagged off on Thursday at Sobi Barracks in Ilorin. The high-profile launch underscored the federal government’s rapid commitment to tackling escalating insecurity threats.
The ceremony was jointly led by Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. This pivotal operation, personally approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes in direct response to the devastating terrorist attack in Kaiama and adjacent areas of Niger State just weeks ago, signaling a renewed nationwide push against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
Governor AbdulRazaq expressed profound gratitude to President Tinubu for the prompt deployment following his urgent distress call regarding terror groups and kidnapping syndicates plaguing the region. He described the initiative as a monumental relief for residents, emphasizing its broader implications beyond mere national security. “Banditry and terrorism strike at the heart of food security,” the Governor noted, highlighting how affected zones form critical farming belts vital to Nigeria’s agricultural output.
In his address, Governor AbdulRazaq elaborated: “Let me first thank the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for approving Operation Savannah Shield, which spans the entirety of Kwara State and parts of Niger State. This is a great relief to our people.
“We’ve witnessed a sharp rise in bandit activities across Kwara North and South, plus Niger State, over the past year. Security forces have made strides, notably improving the situation in Kwara South. Yet Kwara North poses ongoing challenges—hence today’s inauguration of Operation Savannah Shield.
“I’m impressed by how swiftly this deployment materialized. My thanks to the Chief of Defence Staff for this quick action. We’re truly relieved; people will now sleep with greater peace of mind.
“These threats extend far beyond security—they jeopardize food production, as the operational zone covers our prime farming areas where farmers have endured relentless disturbances. Your presence brings much-needed relief, and we deeply appreciate it.”
Earlier that day, during a courtesy visit to the Governor’s residence in Ilorin, CDS General Oluyede outlined the operation’s strategic intent. “I’m in Kwara to commiserate with His Excellency over recent tragedies and assure him of our resolve to neutralize these state enemies,” he stated. The CDS detailed how Operation Savannah Shield integrates Army, Navy, and Air Force units under a unified command for maximum effectiveness.
He positioned the effort as a “proactive kinetic response” to eradicate kidnapping and criminality, with troops set to comb the expansive Kainji National Park—long exploited as a terrorist haven and transit route. “This joint task force covers all of Kwara and parts of Niger State,” General Oluyede affirmed. “Its core mandate: safeguard lives and property, eliminate terrorists and criminals, dismantle kidnapping rings, and restore order in intelligence-led sweeps.”
Expanding on tactics, the CDS stressed a holistic, community-centric approach: “We’ll blend kinetic operations with non-kinetic strategies like robust patrols, targeted raids, strategic communications, and grassroots engagement. Special focus targets forested, ungoverned spaces around Kainji Lake National Park.
“This isn’t a short-term fix but a sustained campaign. We seek the vital support of traditional rulers, youth leaders, and communities through actionable intelligence. Security is collective—together, we’ll liberate every community from fear.”
The operation’s launch has injected optimism across Kwara, where insecurity had disrupted daily life, farming, and commerce. Analysts view it as a model for inter-agency synergy, potentially replicable nationwide amid rising threats from the Northwest corridor.
Governor AbdulRazaq reiterated the state’s full logistical backing, calling on citizens to collaborate with troops. “With this shield, Kwara marches toward safer horizons,” he concluded.
Rafiu Ajakaye
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor
February 19, 2026