By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday led a high-powered delegation of heads of security agencies on an on-the-spot assessment of the prevailing security situation in Jos, Plateau State, as part of renewed efforts to restore calm and entrench lasting peace in the troubled communities.
The strategic visit underscored the Nigerian Army’s commitment to stabilising the state and strengthening collaboration among security agencies and civil authorities in addressing emerging threats. Upon arrival, the army chief was received by the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, in what observers described as a strong demonstration of civil-military cooperation and a shared determination to tackle the security challenges confronting the state.
In an official signed statement, Acting Director, Army Public Relations Colonel APPOLONIA ANELE disclosed that during the visit, the COAS received a detailed operational briefing from the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division and Commander of Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace, Folusho Oyinlola. The briefing highlighted ongoing operations and proactive measures being implemented by troops in collaboration with other security agencies to contain threats, protect lives and property, and stabilise communities affected by recent violence.
The operational update also provided insights into the intensified security deployments, intelligence-driven operations, and coordinated patrols currently underway across vulnerable areas of the state. These measures, according to military authorities, are designed to deter criminal elements, restore public confidence, and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
As part of his engagements in the state, Lieutenant General Shaibu met with community leaders and residents, where he reassured them of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding all law-abiding citizens. He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies by adhering to the curfew directives and cooperating fully with ongoing operations and investigations, while continuing with their lawful daily activities.
The COAS emphasised that the restoration of peace requires sustained collaboration between security forces and local communities, noting that timely intelligence and cooperation from residents remain critical in identifying and neutralising threats.
Reacting to the visit, the Chairman of Jos North Local Government Area, Dachung Bagos, commended the army chief for the timely intervention, stating that the presence of the nation’s top military leadership would significantly boost public confidence and reinforce trust in the ongoing security operations.
Similarly, the Councillor representing Naraguta ‘B’ Ward, Ladi Dangyok, expressed appreciation for the swift response by the Nigerian Army, describing the visit as a strong reassurance to affected communities that the government and security agencies are committed to protecting lives and restoring normalcy.
Military authorities reiterated that the Nigerian Army, under the leadership of the COAS, remains resolute in working closely with sister security agencies, the Plateau State Government, and other critical stakeholders to decisively confront the security challenges facing the state.
The coordinated security strategy, officials say, reflects a firm national resolve to restore enduring peace, strengthen community resilience, and ensure that Plateau State remains safe, stable, and secure for all residents.
