Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda, has lauded President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for the collaborative efforts said to be restoring peace to Benue State and other parts of the North Central region.
The group specifically highlighted the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, in driving sustained operations that have reduced attacks and enabled communities to return to normal life.
In a statement by Ambassador Marcus Adams Odoba, the group pointed to recent military successes under Operation Whirl Stroke, including the rescue of seven kidnap victims in Ohimini Local Government Area and the neutralisation of suspected kidnappers in Katsina-Ala, where troops recovered arms and ammunition.
In Guma Local Government Area, the Special Intervention Battalion has maintained relative calm for several months, allowing more than 1,000 internally displaced persons to return home.
“President Tinubu’s firm commitment to securing the North Central, combined with the professional leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede, has brought tangible relief to the people of Benue.
“The Armed Forces have demonstrated courage, consistency and strategic focus in protecting lives and property.
“We commend the CDS for the effective blend of kinetic operations and community engagement that has made these gains possible. Many families are now returning to their ancestral homes because of this collaborative approach,” Odoba stated.
The group noted that additional troop deployments, improved coordination among security agencies and the planned establishment of a new military division covering Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa have strengthened the operational capacity of forces on the ground.
These measures, backed by presidential directives, he said had contributed to a noticeable decline in violent incidents across previously volatile communities.