Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, has ordered troops of the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE to continue aggressive campaigns against criminal networks destabilizing Benue State and surrounding areas. The directive, issued during a visit to the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi, underscores the military’s commitment to restoring lasting security amid reported progress in reducing violence and facilitating the return of internally displaced persons.
Lieutenant-General Shaibu’s assessment tour of the brigade highlighted recent operational successes, attributing improved safety conditions to sustained pressure on armed groups. Benue, located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, has long suffered from communal conflicts, banditry, and herder-farmer clashes, displacing thousands. Operation WHIRL STROKE, a coordinated military response, aims to dismantle criminal elements and support community stability.
Addressing troops, the COAS commended their resilience and sacrifices but stressed the need for relentless action to prevent a resurgence of violence. He emphasized consolidating gains through intelligence-driven operations, enhanced collaboration with other security agencies, and consistent community engagement. “Public trust and credibility are critical force multipliers,” he noted, cautioning personnel to uphold neutrality and impartiality, especially during communal tensions, to maintain the army’s legitimacy.
Shaibu reinforced the importance of strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement and international best practices, ensuring professionalism and discipline in all operations. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s loyalty to the President and Constitution, while reiterating his commitment to troop welfare under the Soldier-First philosophy. Assurances were given that prioritizing personnel well-being, alongside infrastructure and living condition upgrades, would sustain a motivated and combat-ready force.
The update, communicated by Acting Director of Army Public Relations Colonel Appolonia Anele in Abuja, reflects a broader strategy to strengthen operational readiness across Nigeria’s security theaters. As the military balances tactical pressure with community-oriented approaches, the focus remains on enabling the safe return of displaced residents and fostering durable peace in Benue and beyond. The COAS’s directives signal ongoing efforts to align military action with national stability goals, with continued assessment tours planned to monitor progress.
