By Joy Odor, Defence Correspondent | Gusau
The Nigerian Army has announced a major leadership change in Operation FANSAN YAMMA, its counterterrorism theatre in Zamfara State, as Major General Warrah Idris formally assumed command on Monday, November 3, 2025.
The change of guard follows a broad Army Headquarters redeployment of senior officers, part of a wider realignment under the new Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs aimed at tightening operational efficiency across joint theatres.
Major General Idris takes over from Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi, who has been redeployed to the Nigerian Air Force Headquarters (NAF HQ) as Chief of Policy and Plans (NAF) after a brief but eventful stint at the helm of OPFY.
During a brief handover ceremony at the Theatre Headquarters in Gusau, Zamfara State, the outgoing commander thanked officers, men, and civilian staff for their loyalty and professionalism, crediting the team’s cohesion for key operational gains recorded during his tenure.
“Whatever success we achieved was the product of teamwork and sacrifice,” AVM Abdullahi said. “I urge you to extend the same loyalty and drive to my successor to ensure sustained progress in the mission to restore peace in the North-West.”
In his maiden address, Major General Idris expressed gratitude to the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to build on existing gains and deepen joint operational synergy across the Army, Air Force, and other security components of the Joint Task Force.
“Our focus will be clear, discipline, innovation, and collaboration,” he said. “We must stay professional, adapt to emerging threats, and work closely with local communities and security stakeholders to deliver lasting peace and stability.”
He emphasized that stronger civil-military relations would remain a cornerstone of his command philosophy, adding that sustained intelligence sharing and trust-building with residents were key to dismantling insurgent networks operating in the region.
The ceremony featured the formal signing of handover notes, the symbolic presentation of the Command Flag, and a group photograph marking the seamless transition of authority.
With Major General Idris now in command, expectations are high for a renewed counterterror drive underpinned by precision operations, improved coordination, and community-based intelligence to reclaim the security landscape of the troubled North-West.
