By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has declared an unbreakable alliance between the Nigerian Army and the Taraba State Government as both sides intensify a renewed offensive against terrorism and other security threats.
Lieutenant General Shaibu made the declaration on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, while receiving the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency, Colonel Agbu Kefas (rtd), alongside federal lawmakers and members of the Executive Council of the International Institute for African Ispense Security and Governance, during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters in Abuja.
In an official signed statement, the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, said the Army Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional responsibility of supporting civil authorities in the maintenance of peace and security across the country.
The COAS described Taraba State as a strategically significant theatre within Nigeria’s security architecture, owing to its challenging terrain and evolving security dynamics. He commended Governor Kefas for what he termed decisive and proactive leadership, as well as the state government’s strong collaboration with security agencies.
Lieutenant General Shaibu specifically praised the Taraba State Government for donating land and providing operational equipment to support military formations, describing the interventions as critical force multipliers that have considerably boosted the tempo, reach and effectiveness of ongoing operations in the state.
Emphasising that sustainable peace can only be achieved through robust civil-military cooperation, the Army Chief appealed for the continuation and expansion of the partnership. He requested support in providing stable electricity supply to 20 Model Battalion, Sarti, and 23 Battalion, noting that reliable power would significantly enhance combat readiness, operational efficiency and troop welfare.
He further called for intensified public sensitisation across Taraba State, urging residents to support security agencies by volunteering timely and credible intelligence. According to him, community participation remains a decisive factor in defeating terrorists and other criminal elements.
Responding, Governor Kefas described the visit as a strong expression of Taraba State’s unwavering solidarity with the Nigerian Army. He congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and commended officers and soldiers for their professionalism, resilience and sacrifices in the line of duty.
The governor noted that the sustained presence of the military in Taraba State has led to visible and measurable improvements in the security situation, while also applauding the growing synergy among all security agencies operating in the state.
He highlighted areas requiring increased military presence and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to deepening support for the Nigerian Army, including the provision of accommodation for deployed troops.
Both parties concluded the engagement by restating their shared resolve to maintain a united and uncompromising front against terrorism, banditry and all forms of criminality in Taraba State and beyond.
