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 Nigeria’s North Central region.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its Executive Director, Dr Johnson Audu, the group said recent military gains in the region reflect a renewed operational drive and stronger coordination under the current leadership of the Armed Forces.
The group noted that 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.
According to the statement, these developments point to a more proactive and intelligence-driven approach by the military, resulting in the disruption of criminal networks and the containment of 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 reads.
The group observed 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 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 made, the group emphasised that the current gains must be consolidated and sustained to prevent any relapse into widespread insecurity.
It urged the military to intensify ongoing operations and maintain strategic momentum in order to ensure that recent improvements translate into lasting peace across the region.
“These gains, while commendable, remain fragile. It is imperative that the Armed Forces sustain the current operational tempo and continue to apply pressure on criminal elements to ensure that stability is not only achieved but preserved,” the statement added.
The group specifically charged the military leadership to replicate emerging pockets of stability across other troubled areas, stressing that consistent presence and sustained engagement are critical to long-term success.
Looking ahead to the Easter period, the CCNSCR called on the Armed Forces to ensure heightened vigilance and robust deployment to guarantee a peaceful and secure celebration across the country.
“We urge the military to sustain and intensify its efforts to ensure that Nigerians across all regions can observe the forthcoming Easter season in peace and safety. The goal must be to replicate and expand current security improvements nationwide,” the statement said.
The group also underscored the importance of citizen cooperation in supporting the work of security agencies, 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 any form of 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. The fight against insecurity requires a united national effort,” Dr Audu said.
The statement further encouraged community leaders, civil society groups, and local institutions to strengthen grassroots engagement and promote a culture of peace and mutual responsibility.
It stressed that trust between citizens and the military remains a critical factor in sustaining recent gains and preventing the resurgence of violence.
The CCNSCR concluded by reaffirming its support for the Armed Forces and its commitment to promoting civic participation in national security, urging all stakeholders to remain resolute in the collective effort to secure the nation.
“The progress recorded in the North Central region must serve as a foundation for broader national stability. With sustained military effort and active citizen collaboration, Nigeria can move steadily towards lasting peace and security,” the statement said.