On 4 September 2025, the Chief of Defence Operations (CDOPS), Major General EV Onumajuru, commenced a three-day operational tour of the Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) Joint Operations Area (JOA). The purpose of the visit was to evaluate troop readiness, operational progress, and ongoing security stabilization efforts.

The visit began at OPWS Headquarters in Makurdi, where Major General Onumajuru was warmly welcomed by the Force Commander (FC), Major General Moses Gara, and key staff officers. Upon arrival, the CDOPS received a comprehensive briefing on current operations, challenges, and successes within the JOA.

In his address, Major General Onumajuru conveyed a goodwill message from the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Gwabin Musa, commending the troops for their resilience, professionalism, and sacrifices in restoring peace, especially following the Yelwata incident—a major security setback. He highlighted the protection of farmers and farmlands as a significant achievement contributing to food security and the gradual restoration of civilian confidence in the region.

Major General Onumajuru emphasized the importance of both kinetic and non-kinetic operations in tackling criminal elements but underscored that kinetic actions must remain the priority in rooting out armed groups, bandits, and militias. He assured the troops of ongoing support with logistics, advanced equipment, and essential resources to maintain morale and operational momentum.

In response, Major General Gara thanked the CDOPS for his encouragement and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to neutralizing emerging threats. He acknowledged that criminal networks were employing increasingly complex tactics but assured that OPWS remains adaptive and responsive.

Also present was the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Tactical Command, Air Vice Marshal PO Obeya, who praised the operational coordination between the Land and Air components of OPWS. He urged the Force Commander to maintain the operational tempo and ensure continued control of the battlespace.

The visit extended to Sector 1 (Benue State) and Sector 2 (Nasarawa State), where the CDOPS engaged with troops, inspected facilities, and reinforced Defence Headquarters’ commitment to the mission’s success.

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