Military relocates Operation Safe Haven headquarters following Plateau killings

Nigerian Army logo. Photo: Army

In a move to curb rising insecurity, the Joint Security Task Force, code-named Operation Enduring Peace in Plateau State, has relocated its tactical headquarters from Jos, the state capital, to Mangu Local Government Area of the state.

The redeployment follows a spate of attacks in Mangu, including the recent assault on Binper Village which claimed over 25 lives.

Addressing journalists during the relocation on Wednesday, the Commander of OPSH and General Officer Commanding, 3 Division, Nigerian Army, Maj-Gen. Williams Dangana, said the decision was aimed at improving operational efficiency and response time.

“Establishing a physical presence in Mangu will enable leadership to maintain direct, real-time assessment of the security situation and ensure timely tactical responses,” Dangana stated.

He disclosed that the relocation is backed by significant reinforcement of troops, equipment and logistics approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lit-Gen. Waidi Shaibu.

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“My being here is not just in person. I’m here with enablers, additional manpower and all the resources required to execute this mandate,” the GOC said.

To confront the heightened threats, the military has also launched Operation Hard Nut, a new initiative focused on dismantling armed groups and restoring order in volatile communities across Mangu and adjoining areas of the state.

Dangana assured residents that troops would maintain a sustained presence to “systematically clear hostile elements and guarantee long-term safety for citizens of Mangu and its environs.”

In recent weeks, renewed violence has left dozens dead and many displaced.

The relocation of the OPSH headquarters to Mangu is expected to enhance coordination between security forces and local stakeholders as the military intensifies operations under Operation Hard Nut.