In a major security move, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has approved the deployment of 850 additional troops to Plateau State amid escalating attacks in the region. The reinforcement aims to strengthen ongoing operations and restore calm following a deadly assault in Jos on March 29.
Reinforcements to Strengthen Security Operations
According to a statement by the Joint Task Force (Operation ENDURING PEACE), the newly deployed troops were drawn from formations in Abuja and Kaduna and have been ordered to support existing forces already working to de‑escalate tensions and protect lives and property across affected communities.
The additional personnel are tasked with enhancing security presence in key flashpoints and ensuring the safety of residents, especially in the state capital and surrounding areas.
Addressing troops at the Joint Task Force headquarters in Jos, the Chief of Army Staff urged officers to remain professional, disciplined, and resolute in confronting criminal elements threatening peace and security. He also reassured them that adequate logistics, equipment, and combat support have been provided to enable effective execution of their mission.
Governor Mutfwang Speaks on Deadly Jos Attack
The development follows a horrific Sunday night attack on March 29, when gunmen opened fire at a busy junction in Jos, killing at least 28 people, including students and staff of the University of Jos. In interviews following the incident, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang said the assault caught both residents and security operatives off‑guard due to the relative calm the state had enjoyed for much of the past year.
Governor Mutfwang described how the attackers appeared to have studied the behavioural patterns of the community before launching the assault. He explained that the gunmen arrived hooded and operated in a manner that initially made residents believe they were law enforcement agents, causing a delayed response that allowed the violence to escalate rapidly.
Security Presence Reinforced After Attack
In the aftermath of the shooting, sporadic violence was reported in parts of Jos, particularly near the University area, raising further concern among residents. Security authorities have since bolstered deployment across affected neighbourhoods, while urging calm as stabilization efforts continue.
Students of the University of Jos were evacuated following the closure of the institution due to rising security fears.
National Response and Presidential Visit
The attack drew national attention and prompted a visit by President Bola Tinubu to Jos on Thursday to mourn with victims’ families. During the visit, President Tinubu was received by Governor Mutfwang and top security officials.
In a solemn address, the President offered condolences to affected families, including personally comforting a grieving mother whose viral video holding her deceased son captured the nation’s attention. He vowed that the government would end the cycle of violence and outlined plans to improve security infrastructure — including the installation of 5,000 AI‑enabled surveillance cameras across Jos to enhance intelligence and prevent future attacks.
Peace Still Fragile
While the deployment of additional troops and heightened security measures have brought some calm, many residents remain anxious, calling for sustained government intervention and actionable plans to prevent further bloodshed. Security agencies continue to encourage cooperation from the public and credible information sharing to help track down perpetrators and stabilise the state.
