The Defence Headquarters has firmly rejected allegations made by the Niger House of Assembly suggesting that the Nigerian Army Training Camp in Kotangora has been overrun by bandits or terrorists.
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In a statement released on Wednesday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, emphasized that “no inch of the training area has been ceded to the terrorist.” He described the claims as “incorrect with realities on the ground,” clarifying that the Nigerian Army continues to maintain control over the training facility.
Buba acknowledged that troops have encountered terrorists during operations in the general area but reiterated that these encounters do not signify a loss of territory. He stated, “While it is understood that troops have recorded encounters with terrorists in the course of operating in the general area, no inch of the training area has been ceded to the terrorist.”
He further explained that military operations in Niger are specifically aimed at targeting terrorists, asserting that any threat should be described solely as terrorism. “Our troops are not relenting at ensuring the destruction of these terrorists wherever they may be hiding,” Buba added.
The Major General also mentioned that the military is collaborating closely with the Niger State Government to enhance security measures for the citizens.
He assured the public of the military’s commitment to maintaining peace and order in the region, stressing that their clearance operations have successfully limited the terrorists’ freedom of action.
