The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to restoring lasting peace and security in Benue State and other troubled areas across the country.
This assurance came during his operational visit to Benue State, which began on Tuesday, June 3, 2025. The visit aimed to evaluate the progress of ongoing security operations and reinforce cooperation with civil authorities.
In a statement issued by the Nigerian Army, General Oluyede was received at the headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke (JTF OPWS), where he was briefed by the Force Commander, Major General Moses Gara. The briefing detailed operational achievements, persistent challenges, and ongoing efforts by troops to neutralize criminal elements destabilizing Benue and its neighboring states.
Following the engagement with military personnel, General Oluyede paid a courtesy visit to Governor Hyacinth Alia at the Government House in Makurdi.
In a show of solidarity, the Army Chief offered condolences to the governor and the people of Benue State over the recent spate of violent attacks that resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in safeguarding lives and property in Benue State and across the country,” General Oluyede assured, stressing the critical role of inter-agency collaboration and community engagement in securing lasting peace.
He reiterated the army’s constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and support internal security efforts, pledging ongoing engagement and strategic deployment of troops to security flashpoints.
Governor Alia, in his response, welcomed the COAS and commended the military’s commitment and visible presence across the state. He specifically lauded recent troop deployments to high-risk areas and urged the Army to intensify operations.
“Your visit reassures our people of the Army’s readiness to stand with us in the face of insecurity,” Governor Alia stated.
The Nigerian Army’s statement concluded by emphasizing that the COAS’s visit underscores the military’s proactive stance on national security and its continued dedication to protecting law-abiding citizens.
“The Nigerian Army remains committed to ensuring peace and security in Benue State and across Nigeria,” the statement affirmed.
