Northern coalition seeks sustained efforts against terrorism, banditry

The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG), on Sunday, called for continued and intensified efforts in the fight against terrorism and banditry across Nigeria.

The group urged governments, security agencies, and community leaders to prioritise long-term strategies aimed at restoring peace and stability.

In a statement, the National Coordinator of CNG, Comrade Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, emphasized the importance of these strategies in addressing the challenges facing affected regions.

The coalition also lauded the heroic efforts of Nigerian security forces for their recent successes in the ongoing fight against bandits and terrorists, which have brought significant relief to many communities across the North.

Charanchi highlighted the achievements of Operation Fansan Yamma, applauding the armed forces for their unwavering commitment to restoring security.

He commended recent victories, such as the neutralization of fighters loyal to bandit leader Bello Turji, including his second-in-command and key commanders in the Northwest. He also acknowledged the elimination of Boko Haram commander Abu Iklima in Bama, Borno State.

Charanchi stated: “The CNG calls for sustaining the momentum through an all-fronts onslaught to ensure the total eradication of banditry and terrorism in all parts of the country.

“It is imperative that the operations extend to the hideouts of these criminals, weakening and decimating them, and preventing their resurgence and attacking capabilities.

“We urge the military and other security agencies to sustain and intensify their offensive operations as they have demonstrated unmatched and patriotic strength by taking the fight directly to the strongholds of these criminals, ensuring they are completely dismantled and unable to regroup.

“The Coalition also extols the Service Chiefs and sister agencies as well as the Minister of Defence for their leadership to the frontline troops and for availing them with the necessary resources to prosecute the operations gallantly.”

He called for enhanced collaboration between federal and state governments and improved coordination among security agencies. He stressed that better synergy and intelligence-sharing would optimize resources and enhance the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts.

The group appealed to Nigerians to provide timely and actionable intelligence to support the military’s efforts, reminding citizens that the fight against insecurity is a collective responsibility.

The coalition encouraged citizens to pray for divine intervention to strengthen the efforts of security forces and expressed confidence that, with continued dedication and God’s guidance, Nigeria will overcome its security challenges and achieve lasting peace.

The Coalition reaffirmed its unwavering support for the security forces and called on all Nigerians to remain steadfast in their contributions toward a peaceful and secure nation.