FCT, Nasarawa residents commend military for fight against terrorism, oil theft

By Anan Geolengs

Residents of Nyanya in the Federal Capital Territory and Mararaba in Nasarawa State have commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for sustained operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and crude oil theft.

They described the military’s efforts as critical to national security and economic stability.

The commendation came on Friday during a Peace and Development Rally organised by the Centre for Security and Economic Development, CSED, in Nyanya. Community members, youth groups, and stakeholders attended to express support for troops across various operational theatres.

Community leader, Aliyu Makama, said the Armed Forces deserve recognition for tackling multiple security threats while protecting critical national assets.

“Our troops are making enormous sacrifices to keep Nigerians safe. While they are fighting terrorists and bandits in different parts of the country, they are also protecting oil installations and combating crude oil theft in the Niger Delta. These efforts deserve the appreciation of every patriotic citizen,” he said.

Gbenga Oke said the military’s anti-crude oil theft operations have helped improve the economy by safeguarding revenues lost to criminal networks.

“We often hear about operations against insurgents and bandits, but many people do not realise the important work being done to stop oil theft. By protecting our oil resources, the Armed Forces are helping to strengthen government revenue and support national development,” Oke stated.

Friday Nnadi also praised the military’s resilience.

“Our soldiers are stretched across different operations, yet they continue to record successes against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits, and oil thieves. Their commitment and professionalism should be commended by all Nigerians,” he said.

CSED Secretary, Taiwo Abiodun, said the rally was organised to promote peaceful coexistence and raise awareness on unity as a foundation for development.

“This rally is aimed at encouraging our people to live together in peace, harmony, and mutual understanding. No meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of conflict, suspicion, and division. Peace remains the bedrock of socio-economic progress,” Abiodun said.

He urged residents to support security agencies by cooperating and sharing credible information.

“The Armed Forces cannot do it alone. Citizens have a critical role to play through cooperation and timely information sharing. When communities work closely with security agencies, it becomes easier to defeat terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminals,” he said.

Abiodun commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, and troops deployed nationwide. “Their sacrifices in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and crude oil theft are helping to safeguard lives, protect critical assets, and strengthen the economy,” he added.

Residents observed that recent efforts against crude oil theft, illegal refining, and pipeline vandalism have boosted crude production and reduced the activities of economic saboteurs in oil-producing areas.

They also acknowledged the sacrifices of military personnel, noting that improved security has enhanced investor confidence in key sectors.

The event ended with participants reaffirming support for the Armed Forces and expressing hope that ongoing operations would continue to strengthen national security and economic development.