By Nkechi Eze
Nigeria’s quest for enduring peace continues to receive renewed impetus through strengthened collaboration between federal security authorities and state governments, as both sides intensify efforts to combine military operations with inclusive, community-driven peacebuilding initiatives. In Benue State, where security challenges have for years affected livelihoods and social stability, improved coordination between the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) and the state government is increasingly translating into visible gains and growing public confidence.
This commitment was reaffirmed by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, when he received the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Iormem Alia, who paid a courtesy visit to him at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.
In an official signed statement, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, disclosed that during the meeting, General Oluyede reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to supporting peacebuilding and stabilisation efforts across Benue State and, by extension, the entire country.
Governor Alia, in his remarks, formally congratulated General Oluyede on his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff and commended the Armed Forces for their sustained efforts in restoring stability in Benue State. He noted that the visible presence and commitment of the military have reassured residents, renewed hope for lasting peace and resulted in appreciable improvement in the security situation across the state.
The Governor pledged the continued readiness of the Benue State Government to partner with the Defence Headquarters in tackling security concerns and consolidating peace across affected communities. He also sought the support of the Defence Headquarters for the state’s ongoing initiative aimed at encouraging non-state actors to lay down their arms, with particular reference to the Sankera axis, comprising Katsina-Ala, Zaki Biam and Logo Local Government Areas.
Responding, General Oluyede expressed satisfaction with the relative improvement in security across several parts of Benue State, attributing the progress to enhanced synergy among security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and the state government. He observed that the growing peace in the state demonstrates that sustainable stability is achievable when stakeholders work closely with security forces.
The Defence Chief emphasised that with sustained cooperation and trust, normalcy can be fully restored across all affected areas of Benue State and, indeed, across the nation. He disclosed plans to establish a structured interface mechanism between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the Benue State Government aimed at strengthening coordination with local stakeholders and ensuring that existing security gains are consolidated and expanded.
General Oluyede further underscored the importance of comprehensive non-kinetic approaches, including rehabilitation and livelihood support programmes for affected and reintegrated persons. He commended Benue State for its initiative encouraging armed elements to abandon violence, urging the state to put in place enduring support measures that would ensure seamless reintegration and make any relapse into criminality unattractive.
The CDS assured that the Armed Forces of Nigeria would continue to support initiatives designed to promote long-term peace, reconciliation and socio-economic recovery in Benue State.
The courtesy visit was attended by senior officials of the Benue State Government and top military officers from the Defence Headquarters, underscoring the shared resolve of both parties to deepen collaboration in the collective pursuit of peace and stability.
