Nwifuru Says Ebonyi Enjoying Unprecedented Peace Through Military Operations
By: Zagazola Makama
Governor Francis Nwifuru has said Ebonyi State is currently experiencing one of its most peaceful periods in recent years, attributing the achievement to the professionalism, operational effectiveness and close collaboration of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
The governor said the state government no longer waits to call for military intervention during emerging security threats because troops have become proactive, acting swiftly on intelligence before criminal elements can strike.
“Before I even think of calling for assistance, they have already responded. That is the kind of commitment we are witnessing from the Nigerian Army. Nigerians should appreciate the sacrifices these officers are making because they are truly working,” he said.
According to Nwifuru, Ebonyi has become a model of effective civil-military cooperation, with highly dedicated commanders and troops working tirelessly to sustain peace across the state.
He noted that residents frequently ask why Ebonyi has remained relatively free from major security incidents despite challenges confronting other parts of the South-East.
“The answer is simple. God has blessed us with competent officers who are not only disciplined and professional but also courageous and operationally effective. We are grateful for their sacrifices and commitment,” he said.
The governor expressed profound appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for strengthening military formations in the state and for establishing the Nigerian Army Depot at Mmasiara, describing the institution as a transformational project that would place Ebonyi at the centre of military training in the South-East.
He said the depot would attract visitors, military personnel and government officials from across the region, further enhancing the state’s strategic importance.
Nwifuru also highlighted Ebonyi’s historical and cultural ties with parts of Northern Nigeria, noting that the state’s geographical position and longstanding interactions with neighbouring states have fostered a unique cultural identity.
He reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting the Armed Forces and maintaining close cooperation with military commanders operating within Ebonyi.
The governor particularly commended the General Officer Commanding and the Commander of the cantonment for sustaining aggressive intelligence-led operations against criminal elements.
He disclosed that since the deployment of the current military leadership in the state, Ebonyi had not recorded any successful attack by suspected members of the outlawed Eastern Security Network (ESN).
“Since the present commanders assumed duty, we have not recorded any ESN attack anywhere in Ebonyi. Every day I receive intelligence reports on how planned attacks are disrupted, how suspects are arrested before they can strike and how troops continue to dominate vulnerable areas,” he said.
He added that the state government remained ready to provide additional logistics and operational support to security agencies to sustain the prevailing peace.
Nwifuru praised the Nigerian Army’s increasing emphasis on operational leadership, noting that commanders were demonstrating initiative, courage and professionalism in confronting security threats.
“You have trained officers who are operationally focused rather than merely administrative. The people of Ebonyi are today enjoying the dividends of their sacrifices, training and dedication,” he said.
The governor concluded by thanking the Chief of Army Staff, officers and soldiers for their unwavering service to the nation, assuring them of the continued support, partnership and appreciation of the government and people of Ebonyi State.
