The Sector Two Commander, North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major-General Mayirenso Saraso, has solicited the support of traditional leaders in Yobe State, Nort-East Nigeria, in tackling insurgency.

In a statement on Friday in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, the Assistant Director, Nigerian Army Public Relations, Sector Two OPHK, Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, explained that Saraso met the call in the course of visiting a number of Emirs in the state.

According to the statement, Saraso visited the Emir of Machina, Alhaji Bashir Albishir Bukar Machinama; and the Emir of Nguru, Alhaji Mustapha Ibn Mai-Kyari.

Another Emir visited was that of Bade, Alhaji Abubakar Suleiman, who is also the Deputy Chairman, Yobe Council of Traditional Rulers.

Saraso said that the visit was meant to register his presence to pay his respects, while seeking royal blessings and guidance from the respective Emirate Councils.

He further explained that the visit was in line with the tradition of the Nigerian Army.

He appealed for more support from the Emirs, especially in the areas of information sharing and intelligence, pointing out that it would create a stronger civil-military relations in the state.

The statement said that the Emirs thanked the Sector Commander and his entourage for the visit and assured him of support that would bring about peace, improved socio-economic activities and development in the state.

The Emirs offered blessings and prayers for the Commander and his troops for a successful duty tour in the state.

According to the statement,  Saraso also paid a familiarisation tour of military formations and units under his command.

He visited the 241 Battalion, Nguru; the 159 Battalion at Gashua; and one of the unit’s duty locations at Kanama.

While addressing officers and soldiers at the various locations, he urged them to remain apolitical, disciplined and dedicated to their assigned duties.