The Presidency has ramped up efforts to tackle rising insecurity in Kwara State, with Abiodun Essiet, the President’s Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on community engagement for north-central, holding high-level talks with local officials and military leaders.
During a three-day visit, SSA Essiet met the executive chairman of Edu local government area and a councillor from Gbugbu ward.
They outlined security threats plaguing Gbugbu town and nearby communities in Edu and Patigi areas, urging closer ties between local authorities, security forces and federal bodies to restore calm.
SSA Essiet then led a delegation to the 22 Armoured Brigade headquarters, home to the new Theatre Command for Operation Savannah Shield—a joint military drive against terrorism, banditry and kidnappings in Kwara and neighbouring Niger State.
Talks with Theatre Commander Major General Yakub Yahaya and Brigade Commander Brigadier General N N Rume centred on the shifting threats, current operations and the importance of military-local partnerships.
The presidential aide also shared insights from a recent citizens’ assembly in Omu-Aran, Ifelodun district, highlighting residents’ fears and demands.
“Community feedback is vital for targeted action,” Essiet stressed, aiming to bolster operations, rebuild trust and enable a return to daily life.
