The Nigerian Army has deployed 300 female soldiers to help curb the incessant kidnapping and killings along Kaduna-Abuja highway as well as surrounding communities to boost security on the corridor.
Kaduna state Governor Nasir el-Rufai received and welcomed the first batch of 100 soldiers known as Nigeria Army Women Corps (N.A.W.C) Wednesday at Kakau.
The female soldiers are expected to complement the existing security forces operating along the highways and the environs, and to help flush out bandits and other criminal elements in the area.
Speaking at the occasion, Governor el-Rufai expressed the hope that with the deployment of the female soldiers, the insecurity along the highways would soon be a thing of the past.
He expressed gratitude to the military for deploying the troops and assured them of the continued support of the state government as they work to secure the state.
“The problem of Abuja-Kaduna road will be over with these female soldiers because what a man can do a woman can do better. We believe in the capability of women in this state.
“I am confident the road will be the safest in Nigeria. We will do everything possible to make this operation comfortable. We are very happy to have you. Your presence will inspire other girls to join the military. That is why we have female deputy governor to inspire other women,” el-Rufai said.
In his remarks, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Kaduna, Major-General Usman Mohammed, acknowledged the state government’s support to the military in its internal security operations.
Major-General Usman also thanked Governor el-Rufai and Deputy Governor Hadiza Balarabe for personally coming to receive the female troops.
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