The government and people of Plateau State have commended the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for establishing additional Nigerian Army formations and units in vulnerable areas of the state.
Describing the initiative as a timely intervention, the state government noted that the move would strengthen security, reassure communities, and consolidate the prevailing peace across the Plateau.
The Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Ngo Josephine Chundung Piyo, conveyed the state’s appreciation on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, during a courtesy visit to the COAS in Jos.
She particularly applauded the establishment of the 24 Armour Brigade in Langtang and its component units in Mangu, Wase, and Shendam, noting that their strategic locations would enhance security coverage and improve the capacity of troops to respond swiftly to threats in vulnerable communities.
The Deputy Governor stated that establishing the new formations demonstrates the commitment of the Nigerian Army under Lt. Gen. Shaibu to bringing security closer to the people and denying criminal elements freedom of action. She expressed optimism that the increased military presence would reinforce public confidence, strengthen early response mechanisms, and contribute significantly to sustaining peace.
While expressing gratitude for the intervention, Piyo requested the deployment of additional personnel and equipment to fully operationalise the newly established units. She assured the COAS of the Plateau State Government’s readiness to provide accommodation and other necessary logistical support to facilitate effective troop operations.
Responding, the COAS disclosed that additional troops, including an extra battalion, would be deployed to Plateau State to reinforce existing formations and enhance the Army’s capacity to address current and emerging security challenges.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu added that the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces has approved the recruitment of an additional 20,000 personnel to strengthen newly established formations nationwide.
The COAS stressed that expanding the Army’s presence in Plateau State aims to improve operational reach and provide greater security to rural communities. He called on relevant stakeholders and the private sector to complement Federal Government efforts by supporting initiatives that enhance security operations’ sustainability.
Emphasising that lasting peace requires collective commitment, Lt. Gen. Shaibu urged the people of Plateau State to continue supporting troops with credible intelligence while embracing dialogue, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to working with the Plateau State Government, other security agencies, and local communities to consolidate gains and create a secure environment where economic activities, investment, and sustainable development can flourish.
