The Nigerian Army has issued a fresh warning to bandits and criminal networks operating in and around the Federal Capital Territory, declaring that the coming year will bring sustained and intensified military operations aimed at flushing them out of the area.
The Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier General Adebisi Onasanya, said criminals would no longer find the FCT or its surrounding communities conducive for illegal activities, stressing that the military would maintain constant pressure throughout 2026.
Onasanya spoke on Saturday in Abuja at the summit of Aso Rock during the Guards Brigade’s annual ascent of the rock, an exercise that traditionally marks the end of the formation’s training year.
He explained that the yearly ascent was designed to test the physical fitness, endurance and unity of officers and soldiers, while also serving as an opportunity to assess operational performance and prepare for the demands of the coming year.
The commander described 2025 as one of the most demanding years for the Brigade, noting that its responsibilities extended far beyond its traditional role of protecting the President due to rising security challenges within the FCT and neighbouring areas.
“In addition to our core responsibility of protecting the President, this year was very challenging because of increased security demands within our area of responsibility,” he said.
Despite the pressure, Onasanya said the formation recorded significant successes, maintaining relative peace across the FCT and its environs.
“The year was also very rewarding because we ensured that the Guards Brigade area of responsibility remained safe. Residents of Abuja and surrounding areas can attest to this,” he added.
He attributed the achievements recorded to sustained military operations and strong collaboration with other security agencies operating within the FCT and adjoining states.
The Guards Brigade, he said, worked closely with the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Department of State Services, while also receiving operational support from the Nigerian Navy and the Nigerian Air Force.
Highlighting key operations carried out during the year, Onasanya said the Brigade conducted several clearance missions against bandits and other criminal elements in parts of the FCT and neighbouring states.
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“At the beginning of the year, bandits were lurking around areas such as Bwari, Abaji and Gwagwalada within the FCT, as well as Toto and parts of Niger State,” he said.
“We carried out a series of clearance operations in these areas, made several arrests, recovered weapons and neutralised a number of criminal elements.”
He added that attempts by criminal groups to destabilise the FCT were swiftly dealt with by security forces.
“Those who attempted to foment trouble within the FCT were apprehended and kept where they belong,” the commander said.
Looking ahead to 2026, Onasanya assured residents that the Guards Brigade would continue to support national security efforts and warned criminals against viewing the FCT as a safe haven.
“The Guards Brigade is a highly motivated formation of the Nigerian Army. As we move into 2026, bandits and criminals should be assured that they will not find it easy. Anyone thinking of using our area of responsibility as a safe haven will be decisively dealt with,” he said.
He commended officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their discipline, dedication and professionalism throughout the year, noting that their commitment enabled the formation to meet its objectives without major setbacks.
Addressing the troops at the summit of Aso Rock, the commander praised their resilience during what he described as a tough operational year.
“It was a very challenging year, but you all gave your best. I am proud of your commitment and professionalism,” he said.
He urged them to maintain high standards of vigilance and discipline as the Brigade prepares for increased operational demands in 2026, stressing that no effort would be spared to ensure the safety of the FCT and its environs.
The exercise ended with a safe and orderly descent from the summit of Aso Rock, with strict emphasis on safety and zero casualties.
NAN
