By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has tasked 3 Division troops on sustaining pressure on criminal elements and consolidate peace efforts in Plateau. Shaibu gave the charge on Monday during an operational visit to the headquarters of 3 Division and Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP). This is contained in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, on Monday in Abuja. The COAS urged the troops to remain alert, disciplined and professional while strengthening collaboration with security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders. He said military action must be complemented by dialogue, reconciliation and other peace-building initiatives to prevent criminal elements from undermining security gains. He directed the troops to respond firmly to threats while respecting the rights of law-abiding citizens and protecting lives and property. Shaibu commended the troops for their courage, professionalism and commitment to duty in securing Plateau and neighbouring areas. The COAS also inspected the ongoing construction of the Nigerian Army Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS) Control Station. He said the facility, when completed and activated, would strengthen the Army’s Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. According to him, the system will enhance real-time situational awareness and provide commanders with timely intelligence for effective decision-making. Shaibu assured the troops of continued support from the Army leadership to enable them discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively. He urged residents to provide security agencies with timely and reliable information, stressing that sustainable peace remained a collective responsibility. He said the Army remained committed to creating an environment where communities could coexist peacefully and pursue their lawful livelihoods without fear. Earlier, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division and Commander OPEP, Maj.-Gen. Maxwell Dangana, briefed the COAS on security developments within the Division’s Area of Responsibility. Dangana also outlined ongoing operations, security arrangements and engagements with stakeholders aimed at preventing violence and promoting sustainable peace. (NAN)