The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has called on community leaders in Plateau State to actively engage youths in identifying and isolating criminal elements responsible for escalating violence in the region. He made this appeal during an operational visit to the Headquarters of Operation Safe Haven in Jos on Friday.
General Musa emphasized the urgent need for collective community efforts to support ongoing military operations aimed at restoring peace and stability.
He stated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria are currently re-evaluating their strategies to counter banditry and other forms of insecurity affecting Plateau and other states under the operation’s mandate.
"We must take decisive actions to halt the cycle of violence affecting Plateau and neighboring states experiencing similar challenges," the CDS said. He urged commanders to adopt innovative military tactics that reflect the asymmetric nature of the conflict and vowed to hold accountable any personnel found neglecting their responsibilities.
During the visit, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director of Defence Information, noted in a press statement that the CDS’s presence in Plateau underscores the seriousness with which the military is addressing the security situation.
In his remarks, Major General Eyitayo Folusho Oyinlola, Commander of Operation Safe Haven and General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army, briefed the CDS on the achievements and ongoing efforts despite recent operational setbacks.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable communities and strengthening collaboration with other security agencies to build an effective intelligence network.
“We have deepened our cooperation with sister agencies, and we are determined not to relent until peace is fully restored across the joint area of operation,” Major General Oyinlola assured.
As part of the visit, General Musa toured the Nigerian Army Medical Centre in Tigi and the military base in Sector 6, Jebbu Bindi, Riyom Local Government Area. He pledged continued support to enhance the facility's capacity to deliver quality healthcare to both troops and the local population.
Addressing troops in Jebbu Bindi, the CDS urged vigilance and dedication to duty, stressing the importance of maintaining strong civil-military relations in the quest for lasting peace.
General Musa's visit is seen as a morale booster for troops on the frontlines and a reaffirmation of the Armed Forces’ commitment to securing lives and property in Plateau State and beyond.