The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede has assured Nigerians that the Lukarawa terror group will soon be dismantled.
Speaking to State House correspondents on Monday after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at Aso Rock Villa, Oluyede said: “We are hitting them hard at the Nigerian end, and once you hit them hard here, they tend to flee to the Niger Republic.
“Now that Niger Republic is coming on board, that means very soon, Lukarawa will be a thing of the past.”
He reiterated the importance of regional cooperation in addressing the cross-border threat posed by the group, which has disrupted governance and security in Nigeria’s northwestern states.
The Lukarawa group originated as a self-defence militia in Sokoto State around 2016 or 2017 but has since evolved into a radical faction, imposing strict religious laws and challenging traditional governance.
Their activities have expanded into Kebbi State, including a deadly attack in Mera village, Augie Local Government Area, in November 2024, which resulted in multiple casualties and significant cattle theft.
The Defence Headquarters has classified Lukarawa as a terrorist organization with links to extremist groups in Mali and Niger.
The group has reportedly recruited youths by offering financial incentives of up to ₦1 million.
Oluyede, who recently assumed command as the Chief of Army Staff, briefed President Tinubu on his strategy to address the nation’s security challenges.
“I am here to reassure Mr. President that I will do my best to make Nigeria better in terms of security. I intend to adopt a different approach to achieve significant results,” he said.
Reflecting on his visits to operational zones in the northwest and northeast, Oluyede revealed that he had motivated troops to intensify efforts against insurgents.
“I spoke with my officers and soldiers to emphasize the need to end all forms of insecurity in Nigeria. I made it clear that I intend to do things differently and expect better results going forward,” he added.
