Army chief praises troops in Benue, orders continued operations against terrorists

By Zainab Uzomah|Abuja

Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has praised troops of the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke for what he described as their resilience and commitment to restoring security in communities affected by violence.

Speaking to soldiers at the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi on Tuesday, the army chief said the troops’ operations had helped weaken criminal groups and allowed some displaced residents to begin returning to their homes.

According to a statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant General Shaibu said the gradual return of internally displaced persons was evidence of the troops’ operational effectiveness.

He however urged soldiers to maintain pressure on armed groups and other criminal elements responsible for violence in the region.

The army chief directed troops to remain “dogged and relentless” in their operations and to take decisive action against individuals or groups threatening peace and stability, regardless of their status or influence.

Lieutenant General Shaibu also stressed the importance of intelligence-driven operations, closer collaboration with other security agencies and stronger engagement with local communities to consolidate recent gains.

He reminded the troops to maintain professionalism and strictly adhere to the rules of engagement and international best practices.

The army chief also warned soldiers to remain neutral in situations involving communal tensions,saying public trust and credibility are critical to the success of military operations.

Reaffirming the army’s commitment to Nigeria’s constitution and the president, he said the welfare of soldiers and their families would remain a priority under what he described as his “Soldier-First” philosophy.

The visit to Makurdi forms part of the army chief’s operational tour aimed at assessing troop readiness and strengthening command guidance in key security theatres.