By Augustine Ehikioya
The Defence Headquarters have officially rebranded Operation SAFE HAVEN to Operation ENDURING PEACE, signalling a strategic shift toward sustainable security and stability in Plateau State and neighbouring regions.
This transition, according to a statement by Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, Director Defence Information, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), reflects a renewed commitment to addressing existing operational gaps and ensuring that peace in the region is not temporary, but enduring.
It reads “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.”
Speaking during an address to troops in Jos, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa commended the gallant personnel for their sacrifices and reaffirmed that the Armed Forces are receiving the necessary support from the Presidency to execute this mission successfully.
He called on troops to redouble their efforts towards outstanding tasks, noting that the ultimate goal is to win peace, not just war.
“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.
He assured that the troops’ dedication and hard work will be duly recognised and
rewarded.
The inauguration of Operation ENDURING PEACE, the statement added, marked the beginning of a new era of proactive security management, aimed at transforming conflict-prone areas into peaceful and prosperous communities.
“However, the Armed Forces stress that this vision requires collaboration from all stakeholders, including political leaders, traditional institutions, religious authorities, and local communities. Their role in rejecting violence, promoting reconciliation, and building trust is crucial for lasting peace.”
The Nigerian Armed Forces, it said, 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.
In his address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Nigerian Army and Commander Operation SAFE HAVEN, Major General Foluso Oyinlola said Operation SAFE HAVEN since its inception has served as a formidable instrument for addressing the myriad of security challenges that once threatened to overwhelm Plateau State.
He added that the change remained a new phase where they will not just react to threats, but anticipate and neutralise them before they manifest.
Finally, he called on all stakeholders including the community, religion, civil society, youth leaders and every law-abiding citizen to partner with the Armed Forces to arrest the ugly situations.