The Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, has approved the immediate deployment of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion of special forces to Plateau State in response to a recent surge in bandit attacks.
In a statement on Monday, the Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace said the elite troops are already in the state and have been tasked to “aggressively and decisively deal with” the escalating security threats. The statement, signed by Captain Chinonso Polycarp Oteh, Media Information Officer, is dated February 9, 2026.
The military described the arrival of the special forces as “a game changer” in combating insecurity, signaling a renewed effort to neutralize armed groups in Plateau State. The troops were received at the 3 Division Headquarters by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, represented by Brig Gen Senlong Sule, Chief of Staff of the operation.
The statement noted that the military leadership instructed the deployed troops “to be decisive and ruthless in carrying out offensive operations against the bandits,” aiming to restore peace and stability in the region.
Major General Oyinlola commended the Chief of Army Staff for providing “combat enablers and logistics support” to ensure the troops’ effectiveness. He also reassured residents not to panic at the sight of heavy troop movements and military equipment, emphasizing that the deployment is intended to improve security.
The military further urged citizens to cooperate by providing timely intelligence on criminal activities, highlighting that such information is crucial for successful operations and achieving lasting peace in Plateau State.
