By The Nigerian Army today announced the deployment of the Chief of Army Staff Special Intervention Battalion XV (CSIB XV) as a force multiplier to the Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS) to boost security operations in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States.
The deployment, according to the Nigerian Army, is part of renewed efforts to strengthen internal security and stabilise communities affected by banditry, armed violence and other criminal activities across the region.
The Nigerian Army disclosed that the troops were deployed following the successful completion of an intensive Special Forces training programme conducted at the Nigerian Army Training Centre, Kontagora.
Approval for the deployment of the newly graduated soldiers to key formations and operational theatres nationwide, including Operation WHIRL STROKE, was granted by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu (NAM), the Army stated.
Upon arrival in the Joint Operations Area, the troops demonstrated high morale and combat readiness and are expected to inject fresh momentum into ongoing efforts aimed at dismantling criminal networks and restoring normalcy, according to the Nigerian Army.
The Army added that the deployment is also intended to safeguard farming communities, protect livelihoods and revive socio economic activities disrupted by persistent insecurity in the region.
Addressing the newly deployed troops, the Force Commander of Joint Task Force Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, welcomed them to the theatre of operations and charged them to effectively apply the skills, discipline and tactics acquired during their Special Forces training, the Nigerian Army said.
Major General Gara emphasised professionalism, resilience and decisiveness against terrorist and other criminal elements, while urging the troops to collaborate closely with sister security services and agencies, the Army noted.
The troops were also cautioned on the responsible use of social media and reminded of the need to maintain operational security at all times, according to the Nigerian Army.
They were further urged to maintain cordial relationships with host communities and to uphold human rights in line with the Nigerian Army’s code of conduct, core values and rules of engagement, the statement concluded.
