Defence chiefs begin operation to secure Nigeria’s borders

Sequel to President Goodluck Jonathan’s directive in his live broadcast to the nation on Tuesday night, authorities at the Defence headquarters have commenced operation to secure the nation’s borders.
The President had assured Nigerians that he would engage the governments of the neighbouring countries through diplomatic channel to seek their cooperation in apprehending terrorists that may want to escape into their countries.
The Director of Defence Information, Brigadier General Chris Olukolade, in a statement on Wednesday, said the operation will involve massive deployment of personnel and resources.
Olukolade said: “In furtherance of the Commander-in-Chief’s directive, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police and other security agencies have commenced operations to rid the nation’s border territories of terrorist bases and activities. The military operation will focus on tracking down criminal elements within the vicinity of border communities prone to terrorist activities.
“The operations which will involve massive deployment of men and resources is aimed at asserting the nation’s territorial integrity and enhancing the security of constituted governmental structures in all territories within Nigeria’s borders.
“The operational plans have also briefed participating troops appropriately on arrests, cordon and search especially directed at apprehending those who have been violating sovereignty of Nigeria through terrorist training for insurgency and related activities. The operation is expected to put an end to insurgent activities in these parts of the country.
“The Defence Headquarters assures law abiding citizens that every effort has been put in place to ensure safety of civilians and non-combatants while the operation lasts.
“All citizens are enjoined to cooperate with troops and supply necessary information on criminal and terrorist activities or movement in their locality as the operation is intended to safeguard the nation’s interests and citizens in all parts of the Federation.”