DEFENCE HEADQUARTERS LAUNCHES NEW JOINT TASK FORCE FOR "ENDURING PEACE" IN PLATEAU

By Timescope news correspondent

JOS, - The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has officially rebranded the North Central security operation, previously known as Operation SAFE HAVEN, to the Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP). The launch ceremony was held on [Add Date] in Jos, Plateau State.

In his keynote address, General Musa stated that while Operation SAFE HAVEN had been a vital stabilising force, addressing complex security challenges and providing critical security assurance to communities affected by recurrent violence, the evolving nature of threats demanded a new approach.

"The rebranding to Operation ENDURING PEACE reflects a broader mandate, a renewed sense of purpose, and a stronger resolve to secure not just temporary safety, but a lasting peace that will endure for generations," the CDS said, according to a statement signed by Major Samson Nantip Zhakom, Media Information Officer for JTF OPEP.

General Musa emphasized that modern security challenges require sustainable solutions that integrate military, political, judicial, and community efforts. He affirmed that JTF OPEP would place a stronger emphasis on inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-driven operations, and community engagement, encapsulating a "whole-of-society" approach. He urged troops to embrace their new identity with pride, discipline, and renewed vigor.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the Commander of the new task force, Major General Folusho Oyinlola—who is also the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army—said the rebranding marks a strategic realignment designed to make operations "more proactive, intelligence-driven, and result-oriented."

General Oyinlola called on all stakeholders, including community leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, and youth groups, to partner closely with JTF OPEP as it tackles emerging security challenges. He thanked the CDS for his unwavering support and promised to restore permanent peace to the Joint Operations Area in the shortest possible time.

Adding strategic context, the Chief of Defence Operations (CDOPS), Major General EV Onumajuru, remarked that JTF OPEP is designed to address gaps in the previous operational framework for achieving sustainable peace. He stated the new task force would enhance early warning mechanisms and dominate all ungoverned spaces with the support of local communities.

The ceremony's highlights included the inspection of the quarter guard, the decoration of the Commander with the new JTF OPEP badge, the hoisting of the new task force flag, and an address to the troops of 3 Division and JTF OPEP.

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