Abuja: Lt .-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has delivered critical combat enablers and deployed an additional 300 troops to boost the workforce under Operation “Whirl Stroke.”
A credible source who pleaded anonymity told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deployment was a significant effort to reinforce security and operational capacity in the North Central region.
The officer said the deployment, including mobility and protective assets, aimed to enhance troop mobility, rapid response, and effectiveness in addressing emerging threats.
The sources said that the COAS presented equipment consignment at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Makurdi during his recent visit to Benue.
He hinted that the items delivered include over 100 motorcycles, Troop-Carrying Vehicles (TCVs), and personal protective equipment.
“These assets are designed to improve tactical agility, force protection, and combat readiness, particularly in difficult and rugged terrains where asymmetric threats are prevalent,” the source said.
It can be recalled that the COAS, while in Makurdi, reassured the people of the state and the wider North Central region of the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace and stability.
He emphasised that efforts to safeguard lives and property would be intensified under his leadership.
The Army Chief also paid a courtesy visit to the state government, where he extended heartfelt condolences over recent violent attacks that resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.
Oluyede directed the immediate review of existing operational frameworks and the reinforcement of troop presence in volatile areas.
The decision, he said, reflects the Army’s responsive approach to evolving security challenges and its resolve to dismantle armed groups terrorising local communities.
The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Maj.-Gen. Moses Gara appreciated the COAS’ timely support.
He noted that the newly inducted assets would be swiftly integrated into ongoing operations to expand operational reach, enhance situational awareness, and strengthen troop morale.
This latest intervention emphasises the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring national security, promoting peace, and enabling regional social and economic development.
The source said that the army leadership under Oluyede had significantly progressed in repositioning the force for effective internal security operations.
Operation “Whirl Stroke” was launched on May 18, 2018, to counter armed herders and militia groups in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Zamfara.
