Army Chief Pledges Stronger Alliance With Taraba in Fight Against Terrorism

By Zainab Uzomah

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed what he called an “unbreakable alliance” between the Nigerian Army and the Taraba State Government in a renewed push against terrorism and wider insecurity.

In a statement signed by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Chief of Army delivered the remarks on Tuesday while receiving the Taraba State Governor, Colonel Agbu Kefas (rtd), who visited the Army Headquarters in Abuja alongside federal lawmakers and members of the International Institute for African Defence, Security and Governance.

Shaibu said the Army remained committed to supporting civil authorities in maintaining peace and stability, noting Taraba’s strategic role within Nigeria’s security architecture. He praised the state government for its decisive leadership and continued support, including the donation of land and operational equipment, which he described as vital contributions that had strengthened military operations across the state.

He stressed the need for sustained civil-military cooperation and appealed for improved electricity supply to 20 Model Battalion in Sarti and 93 Battalion, saying enhanced power would boost operational efficiency and troop welfare. The Army Chief also called for intensified public sensitisation and urged communities across Taraba to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies.

Responding, Governor Kefas said the visit reaffirmed Taraba’s solidarity with the Nigerian Army. He congratulated Shaibu on his appointment and commended the professionalism and sacrifices of troops, noting that their operations had led to measurable improvements in the state’s security environment. He also highlighted areas requiring additional military presence and pledged continued government support, including accommodation for deployed personnel.

Both parties concluded by restating their commitment to strengthening cooperation in the ongoing fight against terrorism and criminality.