The General Officer Commanding (GOC), 5 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Moses Gara, has directed troops deployed in Nasarawa State to intensify intelligence-driven operations, maintain discipline and strengthen collaboration with host communities to address security threats.
Gara gave the directive during a two-day operational tour of the newly established 10 Brigade and its affiliated military formations in the state, where he assessed their operational readiness, reviewed the security situation and examined challenges confronting personnel.
A statement issued to journalists in Makurdi by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 5 Division, Lieutenant Colonel Agha Okoro, indicated that the tour covered the 105 Battalion in Awe; Headquarters, 10 Brigade, in Lafia; 104 Battalion in Wamba; 351 Artillery Regiment in Loko; and 106 Battalion in Toto.
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During operational briefings, commanders identified kidnapping, farmer-herder clashes, communal conflicts, banditry, illegal mining, drug-related activities and other criminal operations as major security challenges in their respective areas of responsibility.
They also highlighted logistical and administrative constraints, including manpower shortages and inadequate accommodation for troops.
Responding to the concerns, Gara emphasised professionalism, operational vigilance and strict adherence to established military procedures. He urged commanders to strengthen intelligence gathering through sustained engagement with youths, traditional rulers and other community stakeholders.
The GOC also called for regular training and improved operational coordination, assuring personnel that the welfare and logistical challenges identified during the tour would receive appropriate attention.
In a related development, the Emir of Loko, Abubakar Ahmed Sabo II, pledged the traditional institution’s continued support for military operations through the provision of useful intelligence and cooperation with security agencies.
The Emir made the commitment when Gara paid him a courtesy visit during the tour.
The traditional ruler, alongside the Administrator of Loko Area Administrative Council and Chairman of the Nasarawa Administrators’ Forum, Shuaibu Umar, reaffirmed the commitment of traditional and community leaders to supporting efforts to restore and sustain peace in the state.
As part of the support, the Emir presented 20 motorcycles to the 351 Artillery Regiment to enhance its operational mobility and effectiveness.
The GOC also inspected ongoing infrastructure and self-help projects across the military formations, including borehole construction, facility renovations and improvements to troops’ accommodation.
Gara reaffirmed the commitment of Headquarters, 5 Division, to improving troops’ welfare and operational effectiveness, urging personnel to remain proactive, disciplined and dedicated to their constitutional responsibilities.
