Nigerian Army Boosts Presence in North Central Amid Worsening Insecurity
In response to the escalating Nigeria insecurity crisis, especially in the North Central region, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, has deployed additional troops and combat enablers to reinforce Operation Whirl Stroke. This move aims to quell the surging violence across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, and parts of Zamfara State.
According to PM News Nigeria, the army’s effort is designed to strengthen the capacity of troops on the ground and support long-term peace efforts.
🔍 What’s Driving the Deployment?
The military’s action follows a series of violent incidents, including the Yelewata massacre in Benue State, where over 150 civilians were reportedly killed in clashes believed to involve armed herders. President Tinubu condemned the attack and ordered an immediate crackdown on the perpetrators.
đź”— Source: AP News
🛡 What Are Combat Enablers?
The term combat enablers refers to essential battlefield support assets, such as:
- Armored personnel carriers
- Drones for surveillance
- Mobile communication systems
- Logistics and medevac units
These tools are critical in improving response time, gathering intelligence, and enhancing the safety of Nigerian troops during operations.
đź“Ť Focus Regions in North Central Nigeria
The deployment specifically targets Nigeria’s most volatile North Central states:
- Benue: Ground zero for herder-farmer clashes
- Nasarawa: Known for harboring armed groups
- Taraba: Facing cross-border attacks
- Zamfara (bordering North Central): Rampant with banditry and kidnappings
This region has become a flashpoint in the broader Nigeria insecurity landscape, often serving as a corridor for armed movements from the Northwest and Northeast.
đź—Ł COAS Statement on Nigeria Insecurity
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja assured citizens that the Nigerian Army remains committed to restoring peace:
“We’re not waiting for more attacks to occur. These reinforcements are proactive steps to protect lives, defend our territory, and support civil governance in affected areas.”
His statement reinforces growing public calls for decisive military action to address the multi-dimensional insecurity plaguing Northern Nigeria.
🧠Operation Whirl Stroke – Background
Launched in 2018, Operation Whirl Stroke is a joint military operation targeting bandits, armed herdsmen, and militia groups across the North Central region. It has been credited with neutralizing dozens of threats, though critics argue more sustained troop presence is needed.
đź”— More about Operation Whirl Stroke on PM News
âś… Conclusion
As Nigeria insecurity continues to threaten peace and development, the deployment of more troops and combat enablers by the Army marks a significant step forward. Whether this strategy leads to lasting stability in North Central Nigeria will depend on consistent action, government support, and community cooperation