CDS Visits Plateau, Says Cycle Of Destruction, Displacement Must End

Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has urged troops in peace operations in Plateau State to redouble their efforts towards the ultimate goal of winning peace, and not just war.

Speaking while addressing the troops in Jos on Friday, General Musa said, “It is time to restore enduring peace. The cycle of destruction and displacement must stop. Between now and December, we must decisively combat the menace threatening our communities,” he stated, assuring that troops’ dedication and hard work would be duly recognised and rewarded.

A statement by the director, defence information, Brig. Gen. Tukur Gusau, yesterday quoted the CDS as commending the troops for their sacrifices and reaffirmed that the armed forces were receiving the necessary support from the Presidency to execute the mission successfully.

The statement said the Defence Headquarters had officially rebranded Operation Safe Haven to Operation Enduring Peace, signaling a strategic shift towards sustainable security and stability in Plateau State and neighbouring states.

It said the transition reflected a renewed commitment to address existing operational gaps and ensure that peace in the region is not temporary, but enduring.

“The new operation will emphasise inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-driven strategies, and community engagement to tackle security challenges comprehensively. Measures under Operation Enduring Peace include deploying additional personnel, strengthening logistics and operational assets and prioritising the welfare of troops on the ground to enhance effectiveness,” Brig. Gen. Gusau said.

He added that the inauguration of Operation Enduring Peace marked the beginning of a new era of proactive security management, aimed at transforming conflict-prone areas into peaceful and prosperous communities.

He, however, stressed that the vision required collaboration from all stakeholders, including political leaders, traditional institutions, religious authorities, and local communities, saying their role in rejecting violence, promoting reconciliation and building trust was crucial for lasting peace.

He added that the Nigerian armed forces remained resolute in their mission to safeguard the lives and property of all Nigerians, adapting and innovating in the face of evolving threats to peace and stability.

The General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army and Commander, Operation Safe Haven, Major General E.F. Oyinlola, said Operation Safe Haven since inception had served as a formidable instrument for addressing the security challenges that once threatened to overwhelm Plateau State. He added that the change remained a new phase  where they would not just react to threats, but anticipated and neutralize them before they manifest.

The GOC urged all stakeholders including community, religion, civil society, youth leaders and every law-abiding citizen to partner the armed forces to arrest the ugly situations.