A northern civil society coalition has expressed support for recent directives issued by Olufemi Oluyede to troops engaged in counter-banditry operations across Nigeria’s North-West.

The group, Northern Peace and Security Accountability Network, said the stance reflects the urgency required to address persistent insecurity in the region.

Speaking at a press briefing in Kano, the coalition’s zonal coordinator, Ibrahim Mahmood Sani, said communities in states such as Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and parts of Kaduna have faced years of attacks, kidnappings and displacement.

He said the military’s renewed operational posture indicates a shift in approach, particularly under Operation Fansan Yamma.

“The directive to intensify operations against criminal elements shows a recognition of the scale of the challenge and the need for sustained action,” he said.

The coalition also referenced the defence chief’s visit to operational areas, including troop engagements in Gusau, noting that such interactions demonstrate direct leadership involvement in field operations.

According to the group, improved coordination among security agencies and increased collaboration between air and ground forces have begun to produce measurable results in some affected areas.

Sani described the ongoing operation as a key national framework for tackling banditry and called for broader support from state governments, local communities and civil society organisations.

He also emphasised the importance of troop welfare, discipline and professionalism, noting that prolonged operations require sustained morale and institutional support.

“The effectiveness of these operations depends not only on strategy but also on the conditions under which personnel operate,” he said.

The coalition urged residents across the region to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information and avoiding any form of support for armed groups.

It added that community engagement remains critical to dismantling criminal networks, particularly in rural areas where local knowledge can aid intelligence gathering.

At the same time, the group called on security forces to maintain respect for civilian rights during operations, stressing that public trust is essential to long-term success.

The coalition expressed cautious optimism that sustained operations and broader collaboration could help stabilise affected areas over time.