By Vicky Attah, Correspondent
The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General WB Idris, has reaffirmed the military’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with retired service personnel, describing veterans as key partners in efforts to improve security and foster lasting peace across the North West.
The assurance came during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Association of Retired Members of the Nigerian Armed Forces (REMNAF), Zamfara State Chapter, to the Theatre Headquarters in Gusau.
According to a statement issued on Saturday by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, the delegation was led by the association’s Chairman, Major Adamu Maikano (Rtd), who sought the military’s support for a proposed mediation and conflict resolution training programme for retired military personnel.
Major Maikano said the planned four-day accreditation programme is aimed at equipping veterans with practical skills in mediation, negotiation, alternative dispute resolution and peacebuilding, enabling them to make greater contributions to conflict prevention and the promotion of peaceful coexistence within their communities.
He appealed to the Theatre Headquarters to support the initiative by providing a training venue, logistics, accommodation and welfare for facilitators expected to conduct the programme.
Responding, Major General Idris commended REMNAF for its continued commitment to national service, noting that the wealth of experience possessed by retired military personnel remains a valuable asset in supporting peacebuilding efforts and promoting public understanding of military operations.
He stressed that tackling insecurity requires a collective approach, saying military operations alone cannot eliminate security challenges without the active involvement of communities and other stakeholders.
The Theatre Commander called for stronger collaboration among security agencies, retired service personnel and local communities, particularly in intelligence sharing, conflict prevention and community engagement.
He also endorsed the proposed training programme and assured the association of Operation FANSAN YAMMA’s support, adding that officers and soldiers of the Joint Task Force would participate in the programme.
Major General Idris expressed confidence that the initiative would complement ongoing military operations by strengthening dialogue, encouraging community participation and enhancing support for security efforts across the region.
The visit ended with a tour of the Theatre’s Wall of Heroes, where the names of Operation FANSAN YAMMA personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty since the establishment of the Theatre in 2024 are inscribed, followed by a group photograph.
