A civic organisation, the Civic Centre for National Security and Civic Responsibility (CCNSCR), has commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and the Armed Forces of Nigeria for what it described as “notable and encouraging improvements” in security operations across the North Central region of the country.

The commendation was contained in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the group’s Executive Director, Dr Johnson Audu, who said recent military gains in the region reflect a renewed operational drive and stronger coordination under the current military leadership.

According to the group, communities across several North Central states — previously plagued by banditry, violent attacks, and persistent security disruptions — are beginning to witness a gradual restoration of order, improved troop presence, and more responsive military interventions.

The CCNSCR attributed the improvements to a more proactive, intelligence-driven approach by the military, which it said has disrupted criminal networks and contained threats that had long destabilised parts of the region.

“The Civic Centre for National Security and Civic Responsibility commends the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, for the renewed sense of direction and operational coordination within the Armed Forces. The emerging security improvements across the North Central region are both significant and reassuring,” the statement read.

The group noted that sustained offensives targeting criminal enclaves, alongside increased surveillance and rapid deployment capabilities, have contributed to weakening the operational capacity of armed groups. It added that the military’s growing ability to secure key transport routes and respond swiftly to distress situations has helped restore public confidence in affected communities.

Dr Audu said the Armed Forces deserve national recognition for maintaining pressure on criminal elements despite the complex and evolving nature of security challenges in the region.

“The men and women of our Armed Forces continue to demonstrate resilience, discipline, and commitment in the face of difficult operational realities. Their efforts in safeguarding lives and stabilising communities across the North Central deserve national commendation,” he said.

While applauding the progress recorded, the CCNSCR stressed that current gains must be consolidated and sustained to prevent a relapse into widespread insecurity. The group urged the military to maintain strategic momentum and intensify ongoing operations to ensure that recent improvements translate into lasting peace.

Looking ahead to the Easter period, the group called on the Armed Forces to ensure heightened vigilance and robust deployment to guarantee a peaceful and secure celebration across the country.

The CCNSCR also underscored the importance of citizen cooperation, noting that lasting security cannot be achieved through military action alone. It called on residents of the North Central region and Nigerians at large to remain vigilant, share credible information with security agencies, and resist collaboration with criminal groups.

“Security is a shared responsibility. Citizens must actively support the Armed Forces through vigilance, cooperation, and a collective rejection of all forms of criminality,” Dr Audu said.

Vanguard News