The Plateau State Government has commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for establishing additional Nigerian Army formations and units in vulnerable communities across the state, describing the move as a timely boost to security and peace.
The Deputy Governor, Mrs Ngo Josephine Piyo, gave the commendation on Tuesday during a courtesy visit to the COAS in Jos. She particularly praised the establishment of 24 Armour Brigade in Langtang and its component units in Mangu, Wase and Shendam, saying their strategic locations would improve security coverage and enable faster response to threats.
TheFact Daily notes that the move is part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing expansion of its operational footprint nationwide, aimed at strengthening its presence in vulnerable areas, improving response capabilities and protecting communities and critical economic activities. The Army has also received presidential approval to recruit an additional 20,000 personnel to strengthen newly established formations and units.
Piyo, however, appealed for additional personnel and equipment to fully operationalise the new formations, assuring the Army of the state government’s support, including the provision of accommodation and other facilities. She said increased military presence would boost public confidence and deny criminal elements freedom of action.
Responding, Shaibu disclosed that additional troops, including another battalion, would soon be deployed to Plateau to reinforce existing formations and address emerging security challenges. He urged the private sector and other stakeholders to support government efforts to sustain security operations.
The COAS stressed that lasting peace requires cooperation among government, security agencies, traditional and community leaders and citizens. He urged residents to provide credible intelligence to troops and embrace dialogue, tolerance and peaceful coexistence to consolidate peace and create an environment conducive to investment and development.
