From Marcus Nkire
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has urged the Nigerian Armed Forces to deal decisively with terrorists and bandits, insisting they should be treated as criminals and enemies threatening the nation’s sovereignty.
The governor made the call on Tuesday in Jos during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, whom he congratulated on his recent appointment.
Mutfwang noted that Plateau State has witnessed relative calm since the assumption of office of the current Army leadership, attributing the improvement in security to renewed military commitment and operational effectiveness.
He cautioned against downplaying acts of terrorism and banditry, stressing that such crimes must be confronted head-on to safeguard lives, property and national unity.
According to the governor, noticeable changes have been recorded in the security architecture since the COAS took office, urging the military high command to sustain and intensify efforts toward restoring lasting peace across the country.
“There have been challenges and moments when Nigerians questioned the state of insecurity, but your presence has given many communities the confidence to sleep with both eyes closed,” Mutfwang said.
He added that insurgents and terrorists must be regarded as enemies of the state and treated accordingly to prevent further erosion of national stability.
The governor also commended the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 3 Division, Maj.-Gen. Folunsho Oyinlola, for ensuring a peaceful Yuletide in Plateau State.
In his response, Lt.-Gen. Shuaibu praised the governor for ongoing developmental efforts in the state and assured him of the Nigerian Army’s continued commitment to improving security in Plateau and beyond.
He described the security challenges in the state as surmountable, expressing confidence that collaboration among stakeholders would yield sustainable results.
“I appreciate the support you have continued to give our division here. With all hands on deck, the security challenges on the Plateau can and will be addressed,” the COAS said.
Shuaibu disclosed that his visit to Jos was part of an operational tour of the 3rd Division of the Nigerian Army, reaffirming the military’s resolve to mitigate security threats across the region.
