The Nigerian Army has rescued more than 1,000 victims of kidnapping in the North-West within the last 18 months, the outgoing General Officer Commanding of 8 Division, Maj. Gen. Ibikunle Ajose, has disclosed.
Ajose made the revelation on Friday during his farewell ceremony in Sokoto, where he outlined key milestones recorded by the division under Sector 2 of Operation Fasan Yamma.
He said sustained military offensives against bandit strongholds led to the rescue of abducted persons, the recovery of arms and ammunition, and the degradation of criminal networks across the region.
According to him, more than 200 weapons and thousands of rounds of ammunition were seized in 2025 alone, adding that the improved security situation allowed many displaced residents to return to their communities and farmlands.
The senior officer described the operations as crucial to rebuilding public trust and restoring normal economic activities in previously affected areas.
Beyond combat operations, Ajose said notable progress was recorded in personnel welfare, including the renovation and construction of residential quarters and the revival of the Giginya Cantonment water system after nearly 20 years.
He added that medical facilities within the barracks were upgraded with round-the-clock electricity, free maternal care, ambulance services and specialist surgeries for injured soldiers, with support from civilian doctors.
The incoming GOC, Maj. Gen. Bemgha Koughna, commended Ajose’s leadership, describing the division’s performance as exemplary, as the outgoing commander was redeployed to Abuja and urged troops to support the new leadership.