Operation Savannah Shield was officially launched in Kwara State on Thursday as a joint security initiative aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping in the state and parts of neighbouring Niger State.

The operation was flagged off at the Sobi Barracks in Ilorin by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede, and Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.

The multi-agency task force, approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes in response to recent terrorist attacks in Kaiama and parts of Niger State.

Governor AbdulRazaq described the deployment as a major relief, noting the growing threat posed by criminal networks, particularly in Kwara North and surrounding areas.

He warned that insecurity in farming communities poses not only a national security challenge but also a threat to food production in the region.

Speaking during the launch, the Chief of Defence Staff said the joint task force would involve the Army, Navy, and Air Force working together to address security threats across the operational area.

He added that troops would conduct operations in forested regions, including the Kainji Lake National Park, which have reportedly been used as hideouts by criminal groups.

According to him, the operation is designed to secure lives and property, dismantle kidnapping networks, and restore law and order through intelligence-driven and community-focused strategies.

Security forces will combine patrols, targeted operations, and community engagement to prevent criminal groups from operating freely.

Authorities have urged traditional rulers, youth leaders, and residents to support the operation by providing credible information to security agencies.