In a significant acknowledgment of the Nigerian Army’s efforts, the Shehu of Bama, His Royal Highness Alhaji Umar Kyari Umar El-Kanemi, has praised the professionalism and steadfastness exhibited by troops of the 7 Division Nigerian Army deployed under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade (SAB) in restoring peace to his Emirate.
The commendation came during a courtesy visit by the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, to the palace in Bama on Sunday, February 11, 2024. The Shehu expressed his congratulations to General Haruna on his appointment and assured him of unwavering support. He highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of the troops, attributing their efforts to the relative peace experienced in the Emirate. The Shehu emphasized the crucial role played by the Nigerian Army in fostering an environment conducive to socio-economic activities, pledging ongoing collaboration towards achieving lasting peace in the region.
In response, the GOC, Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, conveyed appreciation for the warm reception and affirmed the Division’s commitment to collaboration with the people of Bama. He assured the monarch of sustained efforts to fulfill their responsibilities diligently.
During the visit, the GOC also conducted an operational and familiarization assessment at Headquarters 21 SAB, Bama, to evaluate troops’ operational readiness in the Brigade’s Area of Responsibility (AOR). Brigadier General SS Diwa, the Brigade Commander, briefed him on ongoing operations.
Expressing satisfaction with the troops’ performance in securing their AOR, the GOC commended their proactive approach in countering insurgents, urging them to maintain their offensive stance to decisively defeat terrorism.
Additionally, the GOC visited the 151 Task Force Battalion deployed at Banki Junction, where he was briefed by Lieutenant Colonel NP Ochasi, the Commanding Officer. In his address to the troops, the GOC applauded their achievements and urged them to sustain their efforts.
The visit was attended by key military officials including Brigadier General SS Diwa, Commander 21 SAB, Brigadier General AO Kazeem, Commander 47 Engineer Brigade, and Brigadier General EN Akpan, Commander 57 Signal Brigade, alongside other unit commanders and staff officers from headquarters 7 Division.
