Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has tasked the newly appointed General Officer Commanding (GOC) 3 Division, Nigerian Army, and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Wunukhe Dangana, with sustaining the gains recorded in the state’s security architecture.
Mutfwang also pledged the continued support of his administration to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies in the efforts to consolidate peace, strengthen security and create an enabling environment for economic growth and sustainable development across the state.
The governor spoke on Thursday when he received the outgoing GOC 3 Division and Commander of Operation Enduring Peace, Major General Eyitayo Oyinlola, and his successor, Major General Dangana, during a courtesy visit to the New Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
Mutfwang welcomed Dangana to Plateau State and expressed confidence in his capacity to build on the achievements recorded under the leadership of Oyinlola.
He commended the outgoing GOC for his courage, professionalism and dedication during his 18-month tour of duty, saying his leadership played a significant role in confronting security threats and strengthening peace-building efforts across the state.
The governor also stated that the sustained collaboration between the Plateau State Government, the Nigerian Army and other security agencies had resulted in improved security, renewed investor confidence, increased socio-economic activities and a steady influx of visitors to the state despite isolated security incidents.
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“Working together, we recorded significant successes through both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. Were it not for his commitment and leadership, the enemies of Plateau would have inflicted far greater pain on our people,” Mutfwang said.
He added, “We remain grateful for his sacrifices and dedication. Wherever you are posted, we urge you to remain an ambassador of Plateau State because your understanding of our security dynamics will continue to be invaluable.”
Mutfwang assured the new GOC of the state government’s continued support, urging him to deepen military-community relations and strengthen coordinated security operations to protect lives and property.
In his farewell remarks, Oyinlola expressed appreciation to the governor for the support extended to his command throughout his tenure, saying the assistance was provided logistically, operationally, morally and spiritually.
“Anytime I called on His Excellency, he was always available to support us. We know the Plateau we met 18 months ago and the Plateau we are leaving today. Although there were challenges, there were far more successes than setbacks, and that was possible because of the Governor’s consistent support,” he said.
Oyinlola disclosed that although his command covered five states within the Joint Operations Area, Plateau required the greatest attention because of its unique security challenges.
He attributed the progress recorded in the state to the strong partnership between the military, the Plateau State Government and other critical stakeholders.
The outgoing commander described Major General Dangana as a seasoned and highly experienced military officer with the competence and leadership qualities required to sustain ongoing security operations.
He appealed to the governor, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents to extend the same cooperation and goodwill accorded him to his successor.
Responding, Dangana expressed gratitude to the governor and the people of Plateau State for the warm reception, pledging to sustain the existing collaboration between the Nigerian Army and the state government.
“I am committed to building on the achievements of my predecessor. Together with other security agencies and the support of the Plateau State Government, we will continue to strengthen ongoing operations to ensure Plateau remains peaceful, secure and conducive for development,” he assured.
The visit was attended by senior government officials, top military officers and members of the Plateau State Executive Council.
