As part of a strategic mission to assess the security architecture and operational effectiveness of deployed troops within the Joint Operations Area in Benue and Nassarawa State, the Force Commander Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) on Tuesday 12 August 2025 conducted a maiden joint land and maritime operational visit to Gidan Pepa in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue and Loko in Nasarawa States.
A statement by the Acting Media Information Officer HQ JTF Operation Whirlstroke Lieutenant Ahmad Zubairu reveals that the visit, which involved a riverine patrol along critical water corridors, reflects the Commander’s emphasis on multi-domain operations and the integration of both land and maritime components in stabilizing volatile flashpoints.
At both operational locations, the Force Commander commended the troops for their commitment to maintaining peace within their Areas of Responsibility.
He urged personnel to remain combat-ready, mission-focused, and continue fostering civil-military cooperation with local communities.
He pledged the swift completion of ongoing accommodation project to improve troops’ welfare and living conditions.
He further assured the men of the delivery of key operational assets, including all-terrain motorcycles, communication, and other mission-essential equipment to enhance mobility as well as command and control capabilities in difficult terrain.
Reinforcing basic soldiering principles, the Commander emphasized weapon maintenance and situational awareness, stating: “Keep your weapons clean and your ears to the ground. Intelligence is your first layer of defence.”
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He expressed appreciation to Shuaibu Umar, Sole Administrator of Loko, and Mike Ejiwo, a respected elder of Gidan Pepa, for their ongoing support and commendation of troops conduct.
Ejiwo reported that the community has enjoyed over five years of peace with no farmer-herder clashes—an outcome of effective military presence and collaboration.
The Commander highlighted that the Nigerian Armed Forces remain the only institution in the country that has increased cash allowance in tandem with the present economic realities while reaffirming the military’s commitment to troops welfare. “We cannot call ourselves your commanders if we cannot take care of you. I came here to say, ‘Well done.’”
He was accompanied by Brigadier General HI Audu, Commander of Sector 2 OPWS; Maritime Component Commander; Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps Component Commander and other senior officers.
The operational tour also extended to Yelwata, a strategic settlement, to further evaluate the security situation and sustain troops presence in the area.
(Editor: Anoyoyo Ogiagboviogie)
