Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), has delivered critical combat enablers and deployed an additional 300 troops to boost the workforce under Operation “Whirl Stroke.”
A credible source who pleaded anonymity told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the deployment was a significant effort to reinforce security and operational capacity in the North Central region. The officer said the deployment, including mobility and protective assets, aimed to enhance troop mobility, rapid response, and effectiveness in addressing emerging threats. The sources said that the COAS presented equipment consignment at the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Makurdi during his recent visit to Benue.
He hinted that the items delivered include over 100 motorcycles, Troop-Carrying Vehicles (TCVs), and personal protective equipment. The Army Chief also paid a courtesy visit to the state government, where he extended heartfelt condolences over recent violent attacks that resulted in loss of lives and destruction of property.
This latest intervention emphasises the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring national security, promoting peace, and enabling regional social and economic development.
The source said that the army leadership under Oluyede had significantly progressed in repositioning the force for effective internal security operations. Operation “Whirl Stroke” was launched on May 18, 2018, to counter armed herders and militia groups in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba and Zamfara.
