The Nigerian Army on Wednesday deployed 300 female soldiers to provide security on the dreaded Kaduna-Abuja highway.

The female soldiers would complement the existing security forces on the highway which has witnessed several cases of killings and abductions.

The first batch of the troops who are of Nigerian Army Women Corps (NAWC), were formally received by Malam Nasir El-Rufai, Governor of Kaduna State at their Kakau base on the highway.

Speaking at the occasion, Governor El-Rufai stated that the deployment of the female soldiers will expunge the activities of criminal elements on the highway and its environs.

He also commended the Nigerian Army for deploying the troops and assured them of the continued support of the Kaduna State Government as they work for security in the State.

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“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 others girls to join the military. That is why we have female deputy governor to inspire other women,” he said.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Major-General Usman Mohammed, commended Governor El-Rufai and the Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe for personally coming to receive the female troops.

He acknowledged the support the Kaduna State government has provided to the military in its internal security operations.

The Kaduna-Abuja expressway has gained notoriety for the activities of criminal elements which has caused panic to travellers and those who reside along the highway.

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Eons Intelligence had reported several cases of killings and abductions on the Kaduna-Abuja expressway in the past.

On 10th January 2021, about 27 traders from the popular Kantin Kwari market in Kano were kidnapped on the highway.

Also on 15th November 2020, gunmen attacked and kidnapped commuters on the Expressway.

However, the Nigerian Army rescued nine of them, while two others lost their lives.

Meanwhile, security operatives have dealt decisively with criminal elements in the area following reports of incessant attacks.

On 17th November 2020, the Nigerian Air Force killed several armed bandits at Kuku area of Kagarko Local Government Area along the Kaduna-Abuja Expressway axis of Kaduna State.

Also on 4th October 2020, two bandits were killed by the army following credible intelligence on activities of suspected gunmen in the area.

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