By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has lauded troops of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE for what he described as their resilience, sacrifice and steadfast commitment in restoring security across troubled communities, a development he said has enabled the gradual return of internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes.
The commendation was conveyed in an official signed statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, who disclosed that the Army Chief gave the charge on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, during an address to troops at the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi.
According to the statement, Lieutenant General Shaibu noted that the troops’ perseverance in the face of persistent security threats has significantly degraded criminal networks operating in the area and created a safer environment for socio-economic activities to resume. He described the safe return of displaced persons as a clear testament to the operational effectiveness and unwavering resolve of the troops.
While applauding their achievements, the COAS directed the soldiers to remain dogged and relentless in sustaining pressure on all elements fomenting violence and criminality for selfish and nefarious interests. He charged them to deal decisively with any individual or group threatening peace and stability, irrespective of status, influence or affiliation.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Operation WHIRL STROKE within Nigeria’s broader security framework, the Army Chief stressed the need to consolidate recent gains through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced inter-agency collaboration and sustained community engagement. He emphasised that operational success must go hand in hand with professionalism, discipline and strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement in line with international best practices.
Lieutenant General Shaibu also cautioned troops to remain neutral and impartial, particularly in situations involving communal tensions, underscoring that credibility and public trust remain vital force multipliers in ongoing operations. He reminded them that the constitutional mandate of the Nigerian Army demands fairness, firmness and fidelity to the rule of law at all times.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s unalloyed loyalty to the President and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the COAS reiterated his commitment to personnel welfare under his Soldier-First philosophy. He assured that the well-being of troops and their families would continue to receive priority attention and pledged sustained improvement of infrastructure and living conditions to ensure a motivated, combat-ready and mission-focused force.
The visit formed part of the COAS’ ongoing strategic assessment tour aimed at strengthening operational readiness and reinforcing command guidance across critical theatres of operation.
