Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday visited the palaces of traditional leaders in Benue State as part of a strategic operational tour of the North Central region, reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks destabilising the area.
Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, said the visit underscores a coordinated approach that blends military action with community engagement.
During the engagements, Lt Gen Shaibu stressed the importance of traditional institutions in sustaining peace. “Security is a shared responsibility. While the Armed Forces will continue to apply decisive force against enemies of the state, enduring stability can only be achieved when communities reject violence, refuse to shield criminals and actively support lawful authority,” he stated.
The COAS announced plans to boost troop presence along vulnerable corridors, particularly the Benue–Taraba axis, with the deployment of an additional battalion. He highlighted enhanced logistics, surveillance, and rapid response capabilities aimed at protecting farming communities and consolidating operational dominance.
Shaibu noted Makurdi’s strategic role as a military hub, hosting elite formations such as the 72 Special Forces Battalion and the newly established 401 Special Forces Brigade. He explained that Operation WHIRL STROKE integrates the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force to counter emerging threats in the Middle Belt.
The Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, commended the Army’s resilience and sacrifices, urging stronger preventive measures for border communities. He emphasized that traditional rulers often receive early intelligence on threats and called for structured collaboration with security agencies to counter misinformation and build public trust. The Och’Idoma, HRM Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo, extended goodwill and encouragement to the troops despite being away on official duties.
By Emmanuel Obisue, Abuja
