Insecurity: CDS rebrands operation safe haven to operation enduring peace for lasting stability

Christopher Musa, a General and the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), at the weekend announced the rebranding of Operation Safe Haven, a critical security operation in Nigeria’s North Central, to Joint Task Force Operation Enduring Peace (JTF OPEP).

The announcement was made during a flag-off ceremony held in Jos, where the CDS outlined the operation’s expanded mandate and vision for long-term peace.

In his address, Musa emphasised that Operation Safe Haven had played a pivotal role in stabilising the region, providing security to communities ravaged by years of violence.

He highlighted that the rebranding reflects a broader strategy aimed not just at ensuring temporary safety, but at securing a sustainable, lasting peace for future generations. “The new identity of JTF OPEP signifies a renewed sense of purpose and a stronger resolve to address the evolving security challenges in the region,” he stated.

General Musa also stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to security, noting that true peace could only be achieved through the collaboration of the military, political institutions, the judiciary, and communities.

The CDS committed to focusing more on intelligence-driven operations, inter-agency collaboration, and community engagement, called for a “whole-of-society” approach to the region’s security challenges.

Folusho Oyinlola, a major general and the General Officer Commanding 3 Division Nigerian Army and Commander of JTF OPEP, echoed the CDS’s sentiments, describing the rebranding as a strategic realignment aimed at more proactive and result-oriented operations.

He called for greater cooperation from all stakeholders, including local leaders, religious groups, civil society organisations, and citizens, urging them to partner with the military in their quest for lasting peace.

Oyinlola assured that under the new mandate, the Joint Task Force would intensify efforts to address emerging security threats, ensuring that the operation is proactive, intelligence-driven, and capable of responding swiftly to crises.

He expressed gratitude to the Chief of Defence Staff for his unwavering support, pledging that JTF OPEP would work tirelessly to restore permanent peace in the region.