President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for successfully neutralising notorious bandit kingpin, Ibrahim Bastuji during an operation in Kogi State and rescuing the widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information, Gen. Rabe Abubakar (rtd).

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu described the operation against Bastuji as a major breakthrough in the fight against banditry and violent crime.

The President said Bastuji had been responsible for a series of kidnappings, attacks and other violent activities that brought hardship to communities in Kogi State and neighbouring areas.

He noted that the bandit leader’s elimination would help restore public confidence and provide relief for residents who had lived under the threat of criminal attacks.

“I congratulate our gallant troops on this decisive milestone. Nigeria will not surrender any part of its territory to criminals. Those who choose the path of violence against innocent citizens will find no hiding place. This success reflects the renewed determination of our security forces to secure every inch of our land,” Tinubu said.

The President also praised security operatives for a separate operation that led to the rescue of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar, widow of the late former Chief of Defence Information.

According to him, the successful rescue demonstrated the professionalism, courage and determination of the troops in confronting criminal elements across the country.

“The safe return of Hajiya Amina Rabe Abubakar is a source of relief to her family and to all Nigerians. I commend the intelligence coordination and bravery of the officers and men who executed the rescue operation. We owe a debt of gratitude to our troops who risk their lives daily to keep us safe,” he added.

Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s security architecture through sustained support for the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

He said the government would continue to provide the resources, training and operational support required to combat banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The President also urged Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to improve security across the country.