Army commander asks Kaduna traditional rulers for timely security information
- Brigadier General SA Jimoh of the 3 Brigade visited Atyap and Bajju chiefdoms in Kaduna State.
- He urged traditional rulers to share credible information with security agencies to tackle threats.
- Jimoh also assessed the newly established 97 Infantry Battalion in Samaru Kataf.
The Nigerian Army has asked traditional rulers in southern Kaduna to pass on credible and timely information to security agencies, saying local knowledge is key to preventing attacks.
Brigadier General SA Jimoh, commander of the 3 Brigade, made the request during courtesy visits to the Agwatyap, the paramount ruler of Atyap Chiefdom, and the Agwam Bajju II, paramount ruler of Bajju Chiefdom. The visits were part of a trip to the newly established 97 Infantry Battalion in Samaru Kataf, according to a statement by the Army's 3 Brigade public relations officer, Babatunde Zubairu, posted on X on Thursday.
Jimoh said traditional rulers and their communities have a vital role in keeping the area safe. "Timely and credible information from local communities will assist security agencies in preventing and responding effectively to security threats," he said.
He also stressed the need for the military to keep engaging with communities where its troops are based, to build trust and improve security. "Peace and security can be achieved more effectively when security agencies and local communities work together," he added.
New battalion in Samaru Kataf
The 97 Infantry Battalion, which falls under the 3 Brigade, is one of the Army's newer units in Kaduna State. During the visit, Jimoh inspected the quarter guard and received a briefing from the battalion's commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel RR Gideon, on its operations, administration and progress since it was set up.
Addressing soldiers in Samaru Kataf, the commander told them to stay alert, disciplined and professional. "You must remain committed, vigilant and disciplined at all times," he said, adding that strict adherence to military ethics was essential to their missions.
He urged the troops to be proactive about emerging threats and to earn the confidence of the communities they serve.
The visit comes as security remains a major concern for residents of Kaduna State, where communities have repeatedly called for more protection. For ordinary Nigerians, better cooperation between the military and local leaders could mean faster response to attacks and fewer surprises for villagers.
What happens next
The Army did not announce any new operation or funding. The focus now is on whether the new battalion and the traditional rulers will act on the call for closer information-sharing.
