The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces for improved security and restored relative peace in parts of Benue State and the wider North Central region. This was stated in a recent report by the group. The organization praised the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for his role in ongoing military operations.
The group cited recent operations under Operation Whirl Stroke, including the rescue of seven kidnap victims in Ohimini Local Government Area. Troops also conducted operations against suspected kidnappers in Katsina-Ala, recovering arms and ammunition. These efforts have contributed to improved security in the region. The Special Intervention Battalion has helped maintain relative calm in Guma Local Government Area.
More than 1,000 internally displaced persons have returned to their communities in Guma Local Government Area due to improved security. The group attributed this progress to President Tinubu's commitment to securing the North Central region and General Oluyede's leadership. The organization's leader, Ambassador Marcus Adams Odoba, expressed appreciation for the effective blend of kinetic operations and community engagement.
The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda highlighted additional troop deployments and improved coordination among security agencies as measures that could further strengthen security operations. Plans for a new military division covering Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa states are also underway. The group noted that presidential directives and increased collaboration among security agencies have contributed to a decline in violent incidents.
The organization commended the administration's emphasis on cooperation among the military, state governments, traditional institutions, and local communities. Sustained collaboration is essential to consolidating security gains, according to the group. Ambassador Odoba expressed optimism that continued support for security operations would help consolidate stability in Benue and other parts of the North Central region.
The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda called for sustained security operations and greater community participation to prevent renewed violence. The organization urged youths across the region to reject violence, embrace dialogue, and support initiatives aimed at peaceful coexistence and cooperation with security agencies. Lasting peace will open the door for development, youth empowerment, and economic recovery in Benue and beyond.
The organization remains committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure that peace endures and expands across the entire North Central region. The group saluted the gallant officers and men of the Armed Forces who continue to serve with dedication under the guidance of President Tinubu and General Oluyede.
Key points
- President Tinubu and the Nigerian Armed Forces have been commended for improved security in Benue State and the North Central region.
- The North Central Youth Development and Peace Agenda cites recent operations under Operation Whirl Stroke as contributing to improved security.
- The organization calls for sustained security operations and greater community participation to prevent renewed violence.
