COAS Rallies Traditional Leaders, Intensifies Offensive in Benue

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, visited traditional rulers in Benue State as part of his operational tour of the North Central theatre, pledging renewed military action to restore lasting peace in the region.

During the visit, the Army Chief reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to dismantling armed groups and criminal networks operating across Benue and neighbouring Nasarawa State and Taraba State. He said the tour included a comprehensive assessment of Operation WHIRL STROKE and the 401 Special Forces Brigade in Makurdi to recalibrate ongoing operations for greater effectiveness.

Shaibu stressed that while the Army would sustain decisive kinetic operations, collaboration with traditional institutions remains critical to achieving sustainable peace. He called on the Tor Tiv, James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, Elaigwu Odogbo, to mobilise grassroots support against criminality and discourage communities from shielding offenders.

“Security is a shared responsibility,” the COAS said, noting that lasting stability requires communities to actively support lawful authorities.

He announced plans to increase troop deployment along vulnerable corridors, particularly the Benue–Taraba axis, including the deployment of an additional battalion. According to him, logistics, surveillance assets and rapid response capabilities have also been enhanced to protect farming communities and maintain operational dominance.

The Army Chief added that intelligence-driven operations and early warning mechanisms would be strengthened, especially as the country approaches the general elections, to ensure a secure environment for citizens.

In his remarks, the Tor Tiv commended the Army’s efforts but urged more preventive strategies to curb recurring attacks in border communities. He emphasised the need for structured collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions to improve intelligence gathering and counter misinformation.

The visit signals a reinforced partnership between the Nigerian Army and traditional leadership in Benue, combining military action with community engagement to stabilise the region.