The Nigerian Army has deployed 100 female soldiers of the 1 Women Special Operation Battalion to secure the Abuja-Kaduna highway.
The women soldiers will form part of Operation Thunder Strike set up to curb the menace of banditry and kidnapping along the road and other surrounding communities.
It the first time female officers will be deployed for internal security operations
The first batch of the troops who are of Nigerian Army Women Corps (NAWC), were formally received by Governor El-Rufai at their Kakau base on the highway.
Governor El-Rufai on the occasion, expressed optimism that, with the deployment of the female soldiers, the insecurity along the highways will soon be a thing of the past.
“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 with this deployment and we will do everything possible to make this operation comfortable.
“We are very happy to have you and I believe your presence will inspire other girls to join the military.
“That is why we have female deputy governors to inspire other women,” El-Rufai said.
Responding, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division Nigerian Army, Kaduna, Major-General Usman Mohammed, thanked 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.
