The Benue Good Governance Network (BGGN) has lauded the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for his recent visit to Benue State to coordinate military operations aimed at restoring peace and order in conflict-affected communities.

The group described the Army Chief’s actions as bold, timely, and deeply reassuring to the people of Benue, many of whom have endured years of violent attacks and displacement without visible federal intervention.

In a statement signed by the Convener, Dr. Amase Paul, the BGGN said General Oluyede’s presence in the state — personally assessing the situation, meeting with troops, and engaging with key stakeholders — sent a strong message of renewed federal resolve to bring an end to terrorism and protect innocent lives.

“For many of our people, this visit came like the first rainfall after a long drought. It was a powerful demonstration that Benue is not alone and not forgotten. Lieutenant General Oluyede has restored our faith in the Nigerian Army and in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration,” Dr Paul said.

Benue State has witnessed a series of brutal attacks by armed militias and terrorists, especially in rural communities where state protection has been minimal. Dozens have been killed, properties destroyed, and families forced to live in IDP camps for years. In recent months, this violence intensified, leaving residents feeling abandoned and vulnerable.

According to BGGN, the military chief’s proactive decision to visit the flashpoints and directly coordinate troop deployment marks a turning point in the fight to reclaim the state from lawlessness.

“His boots-on-ground approach shows courage and sincerity. It gave our people a sense of safety they have not felt in years. Our women now sleep without fear, and our youths feel that the government finally understands their pain,” he added.

The statement further praised the renewed military coordination as evidence of President Tinubu’s determination to tackle insecurity in all parts of Nigeria, particularly in regions where terror has lingered too long without response.

“Before now, there was a growing belief that Benue had been left to its fate. But the actions of General Oluyede and the clear support from the President have changed that perception. Our people now feel reassured that all will be well again,” he added.

The Benue Good Governance Network said the federal government must ensure this momentum is sustained. It called for more troops, intelligence operations, and continued community engagement to eliminate criminal hideouts and build trust between civilians and the military.

“We urge the Chief of Army Staff not to allow this visit to be a one-off gesture. Let it mark the beginning of sustained and well-coordinated efforts to permanently end terrorism in our land,” Dr. Paul stated.

The group also pledged the full cooperation and support of Benue youths to complement the military’s efforts. It noted that local knowledge, civilian intelligence, and inter-generational partnerships will be key to restoring lasting peace.

“The youths of Benue are ready to support this new direction. We will organise, sensitise, and mobilise our communities to work hand-in-hand with the Nigerian Army in defeating terror. It is our land, and we will defend it — through unity, lawful engagement, and honest partnership,” the group stated.

The BGGN said it has already begun deploying its networks across affected local government areas to facilitate communication between youth leaders and military commanders on the ground.

“We believe peace must be built by both the gun and goodwill. While the soldiers defend us, our duty is to help create an environment where peace can grow and survive,” Paul added.

The group further urged the Army and federal government to pay attention to the post-conflict phase, including the reconstruction of schools, hospitals, roads, and homes destroyed by violence.

“Lasting peace goes beyond the battlefield. It requires healing, rebuilding, and restoring the dignity of displaced families. We appeal to the Chief of Army Staff to work with relevant agencies to ensure that the military’s success is followed by relief, recovery and development.”

Dr. Paul concluded by reaffirming the network’s commitment to advancing good governance, civic responsibility, and public accountability in the state.

He also called on traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society groups to rally behind the peace efforts initiated by the military leadership.

“Lieutenant General Oluyede has done what true leaders do. We thank him. And we stand ready to support him in this courageous mission to restore peace in our dear Benue State,” the group concluded.