Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has hailed President Bola Tinubu for supplying the Nigerian Army with advanced weaponry to combat nationwide security challenges.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu at the Government House in Makurdi on Thursday, Governor Alia praised the Federal Government’s backing for the entire Armed Forces.
He said “The provision of sophisticated weapons will strengthen the military’s capacity to address emerging security threats, particularly in Benue and other affected regions.”
Governor Alia has also described the visit as “timely and reassuring” amid calls for intensified measures, welcoming extra troop deployments and pledging his administration’s ongoing support to curb criminality.
According to a statement by Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Public Relations, General
Shaibu assured Governor Alia that new equipment, including modern weapons and combat enablers funded under President Tinubu’s administration would enhance troop effectiveness in operations such as those against unrest in Benue.
NewsQuest reports that Benue State has been one of the high-hit states by armed terrorists and farmer/herder crisis with several massacres, and millions of people displaced.
Major attacks in the State include the 2025 Yelwata Massacre in Guma LGA, with killings estimated at up to 280, and the Sankera massacres in April 2025.
Reports indicate that all 23 local government areas in Benue have seen assaults, with hotspots like Guma, Gwer West, Ukum, Logo, Agatu, and Apa.
The statement said General Shaibu has commended the resilience of the Benue State government and residents, especially their support for Operation Whirl Stroke troops.
He called for sustained collaboration between security forces, local authorities, and communities to achieve lasting peace.
