President Muhammadu Buhari has approved a major military operation to rid Niger State of bandits and elements of Boko Haram fleeing theaters of war in the northwest and the northeast.

The President directs the Defence Headquarters to respond robustly to the cases of killings and kidnappings in the state and to give effect to the strategic objectives through the use of force.

In a message to the government and people of Niger State, President Buhari expresses sincere sympathies to them following recent security incidents experienced.

The President reiterates that security is a responsibility of every member of the community, stressing that only through solidarity and co-operation with law enforcement agencies can criminals be defeated.