In a renewed effort to tackle insecurity in the North Central region, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has deployed 300 additional troops and delivered key combat equipment to strengthen Operation Whirl Stroke.

A source who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) said the deployment is part of a broader strategy to enhance the Nigerian Army’s response to threats in the region.

During a recent visit to Benue State, the Army Chief presented a range of tactical resources to the Joint Task Force (JTF) headquarters in Makurdi. These included:

Over 100 motorcycles

Troop-Carrying Vehicles (TCVs)

Personal protective gear

These tools are expected to boost troop mobility, enable faster response to attacks, and increase combat effectiveness—especially in tough terrains where insurgents and armed groups operate.

While in Makurdi, Lt.-Gen. Oluyede reassured residents of the Army’s commitment to restoring peace. He also visited the state government, offering condolences for lives lost in recent attacks and promising intensified efforts to protect communities.

The COAS ordered an immediate review of current military strategies and reinforcement of troops in high-risk areas, emphasizing that the Army will remain responsive to changing security challenges.

Major General Moses Gara, Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, thanked the Army Chief for the timely intervention. He said the new equipment will help improve troop morale, widen operational coverage, and increase situational awareness.

Launched in May 2018, Operation Whirl Stroke was created to fight armed herdsmen and militia groups causing unrest in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, and Zamfara states.

This latest support signals a strong move by the Nigerian Army under Oluyede’s leadership to restore peace, protect citizens, and help drive social and economic development in the region.