By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of Defence Staff, General CG Musa, has announced the rebranding of the North Central Operation SAFE HAVEN to Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE (JTF OPEP).
The CDS made this announcement in Jos, during the official flag off of the new Operation.
In his remarks at the flag off ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, said Operation SAFE HAVEN had played a vital role in addressing the complex security challenges in its Joint Operations Area, and also served as a stabilizing force, providing the much-needed assurance of security to communities affected by decades of recurrent violence. General Musa, disclosed that the rebranding would reflect a broader mandate, renewed sense of purpose and a stronger resolve to secure not just temporary safety, but a lasting peace that would endure for generations.
The CDS further noted, that security challenges require more than immediate interventions but sustainable solutions that integrate military, political, judicial and community efforts. He, affirmed that Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE would place stronger emphasis on inter-agency collaboration, intelligence-driven operations and community engagement which encapsulate a whole-of-society approach. The CDS urged troops to embrace the new identity of JTF OPEP with pride, discipline and renewed vigor, while carrying out their duties in the pursuit of national security.
Earlier in his welcome address, the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE, Major General Folusho Oyinlola, said the rebranding would usher in a renewed era of commitment, strategy, and purpose in the collective quest for peace and stability in the Joint Operations Area. He, stated that the rebranding exercise was a strategic realignment designed to make operations more proactive, intelligence-driven and result-oriented.
The Commander, called on all stakeholders including community leaders, religious bodies, civil society organisations, youth groups, and indeed every law-abiding citizen to partner with Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE more closely than ever before, as it continues to tackle emerging security challenges. He, thanked the Chief of Defence Staff for his unwavering support to the mission, and promised to restore permanent peace to JTF OPEF Joint Operations Area in the shortest possible time.
The Chief of Defence Operations (CDOPS), Major General EV Onumajuru, remarked that the new Operation would address the noticeable gap in the previous conduct of operations for sustainable peace and development in the JOA. According to the CDOPS, JTF OPEP would improve the early warning mechanism and also dominate all ungoverned spaces with the support of local communities.
The highlight of the event includes Inspection of quarter guard, decoration of the Commander with the new badge of JTF OPEP, hoisting of Joint Task Force Operation ENDURING PEACE flag and address to troops of 3 Division and JTF OPEP.
