Army Deploys 178 Troops to Plateau’s Mangu Amid Rising Tension

The Nigerian Army has deployed 178 personnel from the 236 Tank Battalion to Sector 8 of Operation Enduring Peace in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.

The deployment is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations in Mangu and surrounding communities following a recent increase in security concerns.

The troops were deployed on September 25, 2026, in two groups of 89 personnel each. They were led by the Commanding Officer of the 236 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel H.O. Obire.

Upon arrival at the sector headquarters, the personnel were received by the Commander of Sector 8, Operation Enduring Peace.

The newly deployed troops subsequently began familiarisation with the sector’s area of responsibility and operational mandate.

Their deployment comes amid reports of attacks, killings, livestock destruction and reprisal incidents in parts of Mangu and adjoining communities in recent weeks.

The reinforcement is expected to increase the military’s presence in vulnerable areas and strengthen the capacity of security personnel to respond quickly to emerging threats.

The troops are also expected to work alongside other security and emergency response agencies operating in the area to protect residents and prevent further violence.

The latest deployment follows earlier measures by the military to strengthen its presence in Mangu.

In August, the military moved its tactical headquarters to Mangu and launched Operation Hard Nut following a deadly attack in the area. The operation was designed to confront armed criminal elements and restore security across affected communities.

The Plateau State Government has also urged residents of communities affected by insecurity to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent further attacks.

The government has appealed to residents to avoid reprisal attacks, warning that such actions could worsen tensions and undermine ongoing peace-building efforts.

The arrival of the additional personnel is expected to support ongoing military operations and improve security coverage across Mangu and neighbouring communities.

The Army is expected to continue coordinating with other security agencies and local stakeholders as efforts intensify to protect lives and property and restore stability in the affected areas.