The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has declared an unbreakable alliance between the Nigerian Army and the Taraba State Government in a renewed, all-out offensive against terrorism and other forms of insecurity, Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele disclosed this in a press statement on Tuesday.
He made this declaration on Tuesday, 27 January 2026, while receiving the Executive Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency, Colonel Agbu Kefas (Rtd), alongside federal lawmakers and members of the Executive Council of the International Institute for African Ispense Security and Governance, during a courtesy visit to the Army Headquarters, Abuja.
Lieutenant General Shaibu reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to its constitutional mandate of supporting civil authorities in the maintenance of peace and security. He noted that Taraba State occupies a strategic position within Nigeria’s security architecture, owing to its unique terrain and security dynamics.
The COAS commended Governor Kefas for his decisive leadership and effective coordination with security agencies, describing the state government’s support—particularly the donation of land and provision of operational equipment—as critical force multipliers that have significantly enhanced the tempo, reach, and effectiveness of military operations in the state.
Emphasising the need for a united front, Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed that sustainable peace can only be achieved through robust civil-military collaboration. In this regard, he appealed for continued partnership, specifically requesting support in providing stable electricity supply to the 20 Model Battalion, Sarti, and the 23 Battalion. He noted that improved power supply would directly enhance operational efficiency, combat readiness, and troop welfare.
The COAS further called for intensified public sensitisation across Taraba State, urging citizens to actively support security operations through the provision of timely and credible intelligence. According to him, community cooperation remains a decisive weapon in defeating terrorists and other criminal elements.
In his response, Governor Kefas described the visit as a demonstration of Taraba State’s unwavering solidarity with the Nigerian Army. He congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and commended the professionalism, resilience, and sacrifices of Nigerian Army personnel, noting that their sustained presence has resulted in visible and measurable improvements in the state’s security environment.
The Governor also applauded the strong inter-agency cooperation among security agencies operating in the state and highlighted areas requiring reinforced military presence. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Taraba State Government to deepening its support for the Nigerian Army, including assistance with accommodation for deployed troops, as both parties reiterated their resolve to maintain a united, steel-hard front against insecurity.
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