By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Army to restoring peace, stability, and security in Benue State and other troubled parts of the country. This reassurance came during an operational visit to Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Tuesday, 3 June 2025, as part of his routine strategic engagements with frontline troops and stakeholders in internal security operations.
According to an official signed statement made available by the Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 401 Special Forces Brigade/Sector 1 Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), Captain Abdullahi Lawal Osabo, the COAS was received at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force OPWS by the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara, upon arrival in the state. The visit formed part of efforts to appraise the current security situation, evaluate operational progress, and enhance inter-agency collaboration in combating threats posed by non-state actors.
General Oluyede was given a comprehensive briefing on the prevailing security dynamics in Benue and adjoining states. Major General Gara presented a detailed analysis of the operational environment, highlighting key achievements recorded by troops in recent months, including the neutralization of several armed militias, the recovery of illegal weapons, and the restoration of civil order in previously volatile communities. He also pointed out lingering challenges confronting troops in the field, particularly in terms of mobility, intelligence gathering, and the complexity of asymmetric threats from criminal elements taking refuge in remote terrains.
While addressing officers and men during the engagement, the COAS expressed deep appreciation for their sacrifices and gallantry. He charged them to remain focused, professional, and resilient in the face of ongoing security challenges. “Let me make it categorically clear—there will be no hiding place for those who choose to perpetuate violence or undermine the peace and unity of our nation. We are here to ensure that every Nigerian, regardless of location or ethnicity, feels safe in their homes and communities,” General Oluyede declared.
Following his engagement at the JTF OPWS Headquarters, the Army Chief proceeded to the Benue State Government House, where he paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor, His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia. During the visit, General Oluyede extended heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Benue State over recent violent attacks in certain communities that led to the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property.
While assuring the Governor of the unwavering support of the Nigerian Army, General Oluyede emphasized the necessity for sustained synergy among security agencies, traditional institutions, and local communities. “The Nigerian Army stands firm in its resolve to protect lives and property. Our commitment is total and we will continue to deploy all available resources to ensure that peace returns permanently to this state,” he stated.
In response, Governor Alia welcomed the COAS warmly and lauded the Nigerian Army for its ongoing efforts in combating insecurity across the state. He expressed gratitude for the strategic deployment of troops to known flashpoints and noted that their presence has significantly reduced incidents of banditry, communal clashes, and other violent crimes. The Governor appealed for continued military presence and intensified patrols in vulnerable areas until normalcy is fully restored.
“General Oluyede’s visit at this critical time is not only reassuring but a strong signal that the Nigerian Army is committed to the well-being of our people. We thank the Army for standing with us in this difficult time, and we will continue to support all security operations aimed at securing our communities,” Governor Alia stated.
The COAS’s visit is widely viewed as a bold and proactive step that underscores the Nigerian Army’s evolving approach to internal security management—anchored on operational excellence, community engagement, and strategic inter-agency collaboration. It also aligns with the broader military agenda of deepening civil-military relations and restoring public confidence in state institutions tasked with guaranteeing safety and order.
As part of his tour, the COAS inspected several deployments under Operation WHIRL STROKE, interacted with commanders in the field, and reassured troops of continued logistical support, welfare enhancement, and operational mobility. He emphasized that morale, discipline, and coordination would remain key pillars in achieving the military’s constitutional mandate.
The Nigerian Army under the leadership of Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede continues to demonstrate unflinching resolve in confronting security challenges across Nigeria. From kinetic engagements to civil support operations, the Army remains a critical national institution working round the clock to safeguard the lives and liberties of all law-abiding citizens.
With the situation in Benue State receiving renewed strategic attention, communities across the region can look forward to improved stability and a more secure environment, as the Nigerian Army intensifies its presence and operational momentum in defence of the nation.
