By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to supporting peacebuilding and stabilization efforts in Benue State, noting that sustained collaboration with stakeholders is yielding positive security outcomes.
General Oluyede gave the assurance when the Governor of Benue State, Reverend Father Hyacinth Iormem Alia, paid a courtesy visit to him at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja. The assurance was contained in a statement issued by the Director, Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.
During the visit, Governor Alia congratulated General Oluyede on his appointment as Chief of Defence Staff and commended the Armed Forces for their sustained operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in Benue State. He said the visible presence and commitment of the military had reassured residents, renewed public confidence, and contributed significantly to the improvement of the security situation across the state.
The governor pledged the Benue State Government’s readiness to continue partnering with the Defence Headquarters in addressing security challenges and consolidating peace in affected communities.
He also sought the support of the Defence Headquarters for the state’s ongoing initiative encouraging non-state actors to lay down their arms, with particular focus on the Sankera axis, comprising Katsina-Ala, Zaki Biam and Logo Local Government Areas.
In his response, General Oluyede expressed satisfaction with the relative improvement in security in several parts of Benue State, attributing the progress to enhanced synergy among security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and the state government.He said the gains recorded so far demonstrate that sustainable peace is achievable when stakeholders work closely with security forces.
The Defence Chief stressed that with sustained cooperation and trust, normalcy can be fully restored across all affected areas of the state and the country at large. He disclosed plans to establish a structured interface mechanism between the Armed Forces of Nigeria and Benue State to strengthen coordination with local stakeholders and ensure that existing security gains are consolidated and expanded.
General Oluyede further emphasized the importance of non-kinetic strategies, including rehabilitation and livelihood support programmes for affected and reintegrated persons. He commended Benue State for its initiative in this regard and urged the government to put in place enduring support measures to ensure successful reintegration and discourage a return to criminal activities.
He assured that the Armed Forces would continue to support initiatives aimed at promoting long-term peace, reconciliation and socio-economic recovery in Benue State.
The meeting was attended by senior officials of the Benue State Government and top military officers from the Defence Headquarters.
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