Group commends Tinubu, military over improved security in North Central

Group commends Tinubu, military over improved security in North Central

The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for what it described as improved security and the return of relative peace to parts of Benue State and the North-Central region.

The group also praised the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, for his leadership of military operations aimed at curbing attacks and enabling displaced communities to return home.

In a statement released on Sunday, signed by its coordinator, Marcus Odoba, the group cited recent operations under Operation Whirl Stroke, including the rescue of seven kidnap victims in Ohimini Local Government Area and the recovery of arms and ammunition following operations against suspected kidnappers in Katsina-Ala.

It also said the Special Intervention Battalion had maintained relative calm in Guma Local Government Area for several months, allowing more than 1,000 internally displaced persons to return to their communities.

“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,” the statement read.

The group further attributed the reported improvement in security to additional troop deployments, improved coordination among security agencies and plans to establish a new military division covering Benue, Kogi and Nasarawa states.

It said the measures, backed by presidential directives, had contributed to a decline in violent incidents in some previously affected communities.

The group also commended the administration’s emphasis on collaboration among the military, state governments, traditional institutions and local communities, describing the approach as important to sustaining the peace.

“The collaboration between the President and the Armed Forces under General Oluyede is delivering results that ordinary citizens can feel.

Troops

“Fewer attacks, successful rescues and the return of displaced persons are clear evidence that the security architecture is working.

“Young people across the North Central are encouraged by these developments. Lasting peace will open the door for development, youth empowerment and economic recovery in Benue and beyond,” it added.

Troops

The group urged youths in the region to reject violence and support dialogue, peaceful coexistence and collaboration with security agencies.