The Nigerian Army has reinforced security operations along vulnerable corridors with the deployment of an additional battalion to the Benue–Taraba axis as part of intensified efforts to address persistent security challenges in the North Central region and protect farming communities affected by recurring violence.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the development on Wednesday during a courtesy visit to the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, as part of his strategic operational tour of Benue State and the broader North Central theatre of operations.
According to a statement issued by the Army spokesperson, Colonel Apollonia Anele, the deployment forms part of broader operational adjustments aimed at strengthening military dominance in volatile areas. The Army chief disclosed that logistics support, surveillance assets and rapid response capabilities have also been significantly enhanced to improve operational effectiveness and ensure the protection of communities along the Benue–Taraba corridor, a region that has experienced repeated security threats affecting agricultural activities and civilian safety.
Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasised that intelligence-driven operations, early warning mechanisms and sustained engagement with local communities remain essential components in preventing reprisals and breaking the recurring cycle of violence. He assured residents that proactive security measures have been activated as the country approaches the general elections, noting that the Army is working to deter criminal actors and guarantee a secure environment for citizens to exercise their civic rights without intimidation.
The COAS explained that his engagements with traditional rulers across Benue State are part of a deliberate strategy to strengthen collaboration between security forces and local leadership structures. He said the visits reflect a renewed and coordinated resolve by the Nigerian Army to decisively flush out criminal elements destabilising Benue State and neighbouring areas.
He stressed that beyond military operations, the involvement and support of traditional institutions remain critical to achieving lasting peace and stability. He urged the Tor Tiv and other traditional rulers to utilise their moral authority and grassroots influence to mobilise communities against criminality and discourage cooperation with violent groups.
According to the Army chief, traditional leaders play a vital role in shaping public perception, promoting peaceful messaging and discouraging any form of collaboration with criminal elements operating within local communities.
He said: “Security is a shared responsibility. While the Armed Forces will continue to apply decisive force against enemies of the state, adding that enduring stability can only be achieved when communities reject violence, refuse to shield criminals and actively support lawful authority.”
In response, the Tor Tiv commended the Nigerian Army for its resilience and sacrifices despite persistent security challenges confronting the region. While acknowledging improvements in civil–military relations, the monarch expressed concern over recurring attacks in border communities and called for stronger preventive security strategies to address emerging threats before they escalate.
He highlighted the importance of integrating grassroots intelligence into military operational planning, noting that traditional rulers often receive early warnings and indicators of potential security threats within their communities.
The Tor Tiv further advocated structured collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions as a means of countering misinformation, strengthening public trust and reinforcing community confidence in ongoing military operations aimed at restoring peace and stability across the state.
