Yesterday, I held a high-level strategic engagement with the Chief of Defence Staff at the Defence Headquarters to review and advance decisive actions on peace, security, and stabilization in Benue State.

The meeting assessed the concrete security gains recorded under my administration, including strengthened civil–military coordination, intelligence-driven operations, and sustained security deployments that have significantly curtailed violent attacks across multiple previously volatile communities. These interventions have restored public confidence, enabled the gradual return of displaced persons, and reasserted the authority of the state in areas that were once under threat.

Discussions focused on deepening operational collaboration between the Benue State Government and the Armed Forces of Nigeria, with a clear commitment to expanding structured programmes for rehabilitation, reintegration, and long-term peacebuilding. This approach reflects a deliberate transition from emergency responses to durable, people-centered stabilization frameworks.

I am encouraged by the strong alignment of purpose and the firm commitment to intensifying joint security efforts in the interest of our people and the stability of the North-Central Nigeria.

The Benue State Government will remain uncompromising in its resolve to protect lives and property, confront all threats to peace, and entrench security as the foundation for development and social cohesion. We will continue to work closely with relevant federal institutions to sustain momentum, consolidate gains, and deliver lasting peace to every community in Benue State.