He said Nasarawa State Government, also on the counsel of the Nigerian Army, opened up access to Kenyehu Uttu Forest and contiguous hills in Toto.

Musa noted that the openings will eradicate incessant banditry, kidnapping and robbery incidences.

“Creating access into remote and isolated areas with attendant infrastructural development will further bring governance and development closer to the people as well as enhance security in the areas.”

The spokesman recalled that on September 20, the 4 Special Forces Command in Doma Nasarawa State, conducted clearance operations in Uttu – Kpokpolobi forest and hills in Toto Local Government Area.

Hideouts were destroyed, while 778 family members of suspected criminals, mostly women and children, were rescued.

The Army disclosed that several suspected terrorists were neutralized and a large cache of arms and ammunition captured.

“The NA wishes to call on other states to emulate the good examples as demonstrated by the Governments of Nasarawa and Kogi States in this strategic effort”, Musa added.