From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna
In a rare show of unified support, the leadership of Southern Kaduna has formally commended Col. DB Fapohunda, Commander of Sector 7, Operation Enduring Peace, for the marked improvement in the region’s security landscape.
The vote of confidence was delivered by Dr. Samuel Achie, Chairman of the Southern Kaduna Community Development Associations (CDA) Forum, during a strategic security briefing in Kachia.
The forum serves as an umbrella body for the various ethnic and community groups across the zone.
While the region has historically faced significant security hurdles, Col. Fapohunda detailed a “success story” of tactical operations that have successfully stabilized several flashpoints.
However, the Commander was transparent about the hurdles still facing his troops.
He identified difficult terrain often hampers the speed of tactical maneuvers and challenges in mobility can occasionally impact response times to distress calls.
Despite these obstacles, Col. Fapohunda emphasized that the military’s success is deeply rooted in political and institutional support.
He specifically lauded Senator Sunday Marshal Katung and Hon. Daniel Amos for their roles in enhancing intelligence sharing and mobility.
He further described the Minister of Defense, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa, as a “strategic asset” whose leadership has been a blessing to both the region and the nation.
The “Intelligence First” Mandate In a move to bolster trust between the military and civilians, Col. Fapohunda issued a firm guarantee of informant confidentiality.
“We will not disclose the source of any information given to us,” the Commander pledged, urging residents to prioritize early warning signals over reactive reporting.
Responding to the briefing, Dr. Achie rallied the various Community Development Associations to move beyond passive observation. He stressed that military might alone cannot secure the region without the “eyes and ears” of the local population.
“Sustaining the progress being made means we must all ‘see something, say something,’” Achie stated, calling for a fortified partnership between the grassroots and the frontline.
The briefing was attended by high-level stakeholders, including the Executive Chairman of Kachia LGA, Hon. Dr. Maigari Manzo, and representatives from the Department of State Services (DSS), signaling a coordinated front against remaining security threats in Southern Kaduna.
