The Federal Government has launched a major security offensive, Operation Savannah Shield, in Nigeria’s North Central region following a deadly terrorist attack in Kwara State that claimed the lives of at least 75 villagers.
The operation involves the deployment of military personnel, police units, and national forest guards to reinforce security in vulnerable communities. Enhanced intelligence gathering and rapid-response protocols form key elements of the offensive.
Government Response
Announcing the operation on Thursday, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to protecting citizens.
“Our government remains unwavering in its commitment to safeguarding the lives of all Nigerians and ensuring their constitutional right to live and worship freely without fear,” he said.
The initiative falls under the expanded security mandate declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following the proclamation of a state of emergency on national security on November 26.
“Operation Savannah Shield is a clear demonstration of this administration’s resolve to decisively confront terrorism and restore confidence in affected communities,” Idris added.
President Tinubu described the Kwara attacks as “beastly” and “heartless,” vowing that the full weight of the state would be brought to bear on those threatening peace and stability.
Strengthened Security Measures
As part of the operation, the Nigeria Police Force has redeployed officers previously assigned to VIP protection duties to frontline community policing roles. This move increases security presence in Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory.
In addition, security has been heightened around places of worship, with visible patrols coordinated alongside community and faith leaders to protect congregants during services.
President Tinubu stressed that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy remains Nigerian-led and sovereignty-driven, while remaining open to strategic intelligence and surveillance cooperation with partners such as the United States where aligned with national interests.
The Gruesome Attack
Gunmen attacked the Woro community and neighbouring Nuku area in Kwara North at about 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday. The assailants reportedly killed at least 75 people, set shops ablaze, torched the residence of a traditional ruler, and forced many residents to flee into nearby bushes.
Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq, described the incident as a “pure massacre,” confirming that victims have been buried.
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) condemned the killings in Kwara, Katsina, and Benue states, describing them as “barbaric, senseless, and a direct assault on the collective conscience of the nation.”
President Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Kwara State to reinforce security operations, signaling the administration’s determination to restore peace and stability in affected communities.
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