The Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 3 Brigade, Brigadier General S. A. Jimoh, has called on traditional rulers in Kaduna State to strengthen cooperation with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to help prevent and respond to security threats.

Jimoh made the appeal during courtesy visits to the Agwatyap, the paramount ruler of Atyap Chiefdom, and Agwam Bajju II, the paramount ruler of Bajju Chiefdom.

The visits formed part of his tour of the newly established 97 Infantry Battalion in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna State.

According to a statement by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations for 3 Brigade, Babatunde Zubairu, the commander stressed that collaboration between the military, traditional institutions and local communities was essential to maintaining peace and security.

He said reliable information from residents could help security agencies identify emerging threats and respond more effectively.

Army seeks stronger community relations

Jimoh also emphasised the importance of sustained engagement between troops and host communities, saying mutual trust was necessary to improve public confidence in security operations.

The commander’s appeal highlights the role traditional rulers can play in community-level intelligence gathering, conflict prevention and communication between residents and security agencies.

During the visit, Jimoh assessed the operational readiness and administrative activities of the 97 Infantry Battalion, a unit under the 3 Brigade.

The visit began with an inspection of the battalion’s Quarter Guard, followed by a briefing from its commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel R. R. Gideon, on operational activities, administrative

arrangements and progress since the unit’s establishment.

Commander charges troops to remain vigilant
Addressing soldiers deployed to Samaru Kataf, Jimoh urged them to maintain discipline, vigilance and professionalism while carrying out their duties.

He said troops must remain alert and prepared to respond to emerging threats within their area of responsibility, while adhering to military ethics.

The commander also stressed that soldiers’ conduct and dedication were important to achieving operational objectives and earning the confidence of surrounding communities.

The establishment of the 97 Infantry Battalion forms part of the Nigerian Army’s efforts to expand its operational presence and improve its capacity to respond to security challenges in Kaduna State and neighbouring areas.

However, the effectiveness of the security effort will depend not only on military readiness but also on reliable information sharing, public trust and sustained cooperation between security personnel and local communities.