Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability in Benue State and other parts of the country.
Speaking at an operational visit to Benue State on Tuesday, 3 June 2025 at the Headquarters Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (JTF OPWS), General Oluyede emphasized the critical need for sustained collaboration among all security stakeholders to achieve lasting peace.
At the Headquarters of JTF OPWS, the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, presented a comprehensive briefing on the security situation, highlighting key operational achievements, ongoing challenges, and the continued efforts of troops in neutralizing criminal elements disrupting peace in Benue and neighboring States.
Following the operational engagement, the COAS proceeded to the Government House in Makurdi, where he met with the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia where in a show of empathy and solidarity, he extended heartfelt condolences to the Governor and the people of Benue over recent unfortunate incidents that resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property in some communities.
The COAS assured the Governor of the Nigerian Army’s firm resolve to safeguard lives and property within the State, further reiterating the military’s commitment to its constitutional mandate of defending the nation’s territorial integrity and supporting internal security operations.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 OPWS, Makurdi, Captain Abdullahi Lawal Osabo, Governor Alia expressed appreciation for the COAS’s timely visit and commended the Nigerian Army for its continued efforts, particularly the strategic deployment of troops to identified flashpoints.
The Governor called on the military to sustain and intensify its operations until all threats to peace and security are effectively neutralized.
The statement noted that “the visit of the Chief of Army Staff to Benue State is a clear testament to the Nigerian Army’s proactive approach to security management and its dedication to protecting the lives and property of all citizens. It further reinforces the Army’s resolve to support civil authorities in ensuring peace and stability across the country.”
