The Sokoto State Government has formally recognized and praised the significant contributions of Major-General Ibikunle Ajose, the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Nigerian Army’s 8 Division, in the protracted battle against banditry and insecurity in the North-West region.
The commendation was conveyed in an official statement released on Thursday by retired Colonel Ahmed Usman, the Special Adviser on Security to Governor Ahmed Aliyu. Usman lauded Ajose as a “gallant officer” whose tenure was marked by “remarkable operational successes,” and extended best wishes for his future assignments.
Usman highlighted General Ajose’s decisive leadership as the Commander of Sector 2 under Operation Hadarin Daji (formerly known as Operation Fansam Yamma), the major multi-agency security offensive in the North-West. He emphasized that the General’s effective coordination with other security agencies—including the police, air force, and the Department of State Services (DSS)—was instrumental in degrading the operational capabilities of terrorist and bandit groups. This collaborative model is seen as a critical, yet often challenging, component of effective counter-insurgency.
“He demonstrated uncommon commitment, courage, and patriotism in the discharge of his duties, earning the respect of officers and men under his command,” the Special Adviser stated.
The recognition from the Sokoto government underscores a crucial, though less reported, aspect of the security landscape: civil-military relations. Public commendations from state governments serve to bolster military morale and reinforce the partnership between civilian authorities and the armed forces. This is particularly vital in regions like Sokoto, where communities have borne the brunt of violence and rely on a visible, trusted security presence.
“The people of Sokoto State, and indeed the entire North-West, will continue to remember Major General Ibikunle Ajose for his selfless service, operational excellence, and firm resolve in confronting banditry and other security threats,” Usman said. “His contributions have strengthened security collaboration and restored confidence among our communities.”
The statement concluded with assurances of the state’s continued support and cooperation with the Nigerian Army under Governor Aliyu’s leadership. It also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to working with all security agencies to sustain and build upon the gains achieved, a nod to the persistent threat and the need for long-term, stable security solutions beyond the tenure of any single commander.
This public commendation sets a precedent for acknowledging military leadership transitions within the context of ongoing operations, potentially fostering continuity and a sense of shared purpose as a new GOC assumes command of the critical 8 Division area of responsibility.
