The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for their efforts in restoring relative peace to parts of Benue State. According to the group, recent operations under Operation Whirl Stroke have led to the rescue of seven kidnap victims in Ohimini Local Government Area and the recovery of arms and ammunition during operations against suspected kidnappers in Katsina-Ala. This development has brought relief to the people of Benue.
The group, in a statement signed by Ambassador Marcus Adams Odoba, cited sustained military operations in Guma Local Government Area as a major factor in maintaining relative calm for several months. This has allowed more than 1,000 internally displaced persons to return to their communities. The group attributed the success to President Tinubu's firm commitment to securing the North Central region and the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede.
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Defence Staff, has been praised for his leadership in military operations aimed at curbing attacks and restoring stability across the North Central region. The group noted that the Armed Forces had demonstrated courage, consistency, and strategic focus in efforts to protect lives and property. The return of displaced families is seen as an indication of improved security in some affected communities.
The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda also noted that additional troop deployments and improved coordination among security agencies have strengthened the operational capacity of security personnel in Benue and other parts of the North Central. Plans for the establishment of a new military division covering Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa states are expected to enhance coordination and response to security threats in the region.
The Federal Government's emphasis on collaboration among the military, state governments, traditional institutions, and local communities has contributed to the progress recorded in some communities. The group urged the authorities and other stakeholders to sustain the collaboration to prevent a resurgence of attacks and consolidate the gains recorded. This collaboration has led to reported rescues, reduced attacks in some areas, and the return of displaced persons.
The organisation called on young people to reject violence and support dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and cooperation with security agencies. Lasting security, according to the group, will create conditions for economic activity, youth empowerment, and development in Benue and other parts of the North Central region. The group expressed confidence that continued government support and sustained security operations will help maintain stability in the region.
The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda commended officers and men of the Armed Forces for their service and urged all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at protecting communities and ensuring that displaced residents who have returned home can remain there safely. The group remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that peace endures and expands across the entire North Central region.
Key points
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces have been praised for their efforts in restoring relative peace to parts of Benue State.
- The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda has attributed the success to President Tinubu's firm commitment to securing the North Central region and the leadership of General Olufemi Oluyede.
- The group has urged the authorities and other stakeholders to sustain collaboration to prevent a resurgence of attacks and consolidate the gains recorded.
