Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has commended federal authorities on the arrest of Ansaru leader Mahmud Muhammad Usman and his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, also known as Malam Mahmuda, describing the operation as a major milestone in Nigeria's fight against terrorism.

The Governor praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the nation's security agencies for the successful intelligence-led operation, calling it evidence of improved effectiveness in counterterrorism under the current administration.

"These arrests are a big win for the country. We commend the President, the National Security Adviser, and the leadership of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Army, Air Force, Navy, the Nigeria Police and other agencies for this feat. On our part, we will continue to support the effort of the President and the security agencies on all fronts," AbdulRazaq said in a statement released on Wednesday.

He expressed confidence that the development, alongside ongoing national security efforts, would contribute significantly to eradicating terrorist activities from Nigerian communities.

"I again reassure our people that we will continue to work with the security agencies to eliminate threats and maintain security of lives and properties. Our people should be rest assured that no resources are being spared to protect them and their properties. I also urge them to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the security forces and other state authorities," he said.

The Governor stressed that limited disclosure of security operations should not be mistaken for inaction, noting that collaboration with security agencies had yielded arrests, intelligence breakthroughs, and prevention of attacks.

"I, therefore, urge our people to remain vigilant but calm," he said.

Governor AbdulRazaq further stated that more security operatives, including forest guards, are being deployed to boost safety in affected areas.