The commander, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Saka Jimoh, has assessed the operational readiness of the newly established 97 Infantry Battalion in Samaru Kataf, Kaduna.

Mr Jimoh also solicited support from traditional rulers in the area to strengthen security and promote peaceful coexistence, according to a statement on Thursday by the army.

The statement said the commander’s visit to the battalion was aimed at assessing its operational preparedness, administrative activities and capacity to discharge its assigned responsibilities.

It said the visit commenced with an inspection of the Quarter Guard, followed by a briefing by the commanding officer, 97 Infantry Battalion, R.R. Gideon, on the unit’s operational activities and administrative arrangements.

Addressing the troops, Mr Jimoh urged them to remain vigilant, disciplined and committed to their duties.

He underscored the need for professionalism, operational alertness and adherence to military ethics to ensure effective mission accomplishment.

The commander also charged the troops to remain focused and proactive in addressing security challenges within their area of responsibility.

As part of efforts to strengthen civil-military relations, Mr Jimoh paid courtesy visits to the Agwatyap, paramount ruler of Atyap Chiefdom, and Agwam Bajju II, paramount ruler of Bajju Chiefdom.

During the visits, he solicited the traditional rulers’ continued cooperation, particularly in providing timely and credible information to security agencies to prevent and respond to security threats.

He reiterated the importance of sustained collaboration between the army and host communities in promoting peace, building public confidence and improving security in the area.

The statement said the visit provided an opportunity to assess the battalion’s activities and operational preparedness while reinforcing the importance of effective leadership, troop discipline and community engagement.

It added that establishing the battalion was part of the army’s efforts to expand its operational presence and enhance its capacity to respond to emerging security threats in Kaduna State and its environs.

(NAN)