FIC Report (Benue State) – The Federal Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to restoring and sustaining peace in Benue State, as the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid an official visit to Makurdi on Thursday, 5th March 2026.
During the visit to Government House, Makurdi, the Army Chief met with the Executive Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and key security stakeholders as part of ongoing federal efforts to strengthen security operations in the state and across the North-Central region.
The visit underscores the strong collaboration between the Benue State Government and the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing security challenges and protecting lives and property.
Speaking during the engagement, the Chief of Army Staff emphasized that the Federal Government remains resolute in its mandate to secure every part of the country. He noted that his visit included operational assessments of military formations such as the Joint Task Force Operation Whirl Stroke and the 401 Special Brigade, aimed at enhancing troop effectiveness and addressing operational challenges.
Lieutenant General Shaibu disclosed that an additional battalion has been deployed to Kwande Local Government Area to reinforce ongoing operations, demonstrating the Federal Government’s proactive response to emerging security concerns. He further revealed that President Tinubu has approved the recruitment and training of over 28,000 troops within one year to bolster Nigeria’s security architecture nationwide.
In addition to kinetic operations, the Nigerian Army is intensifying non-kinetic strategies, including strengthened engagement with traditional rulers and community leaders to enhance intelligence gathering and community trust. The Army is also expanding its aviation capabilities to improve rapid response, with plans underway to provide helicopters to support Operation Whirl Stroke.
The Federal Government commended the Benue State Government for its cooperation and logistical support to security agencies, noting that such collaboration has contributed significantly to the reduction of insecurity across the state. Since May 29, 2023, sustained joint efforts have led to a marked decline in high-risk areas, restoring relative peace in previously troubled local government areas.
The Federal Government calls on residents of Benue State to continue supporting security agencies with credible information, stressing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility and active community partnership.
The Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that internally displaced persons return safely to their ancestral homes and that lasting peace and development are fully restored in Benue State and across the nation.
Signed:
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head of Center
Federal Information Center
Makurdi
