President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived at the Tactical Air Command of the Nigerian Air Force Base in Makurdi, Benue State, at approximately 12:58 p.m. on Wednesday, as part of a strategic peace mission to the region.
The visit comes in the aftermath of another wave of violent attacks that have resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction across several communities. The tragic incidents have deepened the humanitarian crisis in the state and drawn nationwide concern.
According to a statement released by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu’s presence in Benue underscores his administration’s firm commitment to finding a lasting and sustainable solution to the persistent communal violence that has continued to claim lives and displace residents.
As part of his peace-building efforts, President Tinubu is expected to hold a town hall-style dialogue involving a broad cross-section of the state’s leadership and stakeholders. This includes traditional rulers, religious leaders, political figures, community representatives, and youth organizations. The meeting is intended to foster open dialogue, encourage reconciliation, and promote practical approaches to long-term peace.
In advance of the President’s visit, a high-level delegation was dispatched to Benue to assess the situation and prepare the groundwork for his arrival. The delegation includes key figures such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Inspector-General of Police, top intelligence agency heads, the National Security Adviser, and the chairpersons of the defence committees in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Their engagement with local authorities and security personnel provided a comprehensive overview of the security landscape.
Significantly, President Tinubu rescheduled a previously planned visit to Kaduna State, where he was to commission various state projects. That event, originally set for Thursday, will now take place after his engagements in Benue, signaling a clear prioritization of national security over ceremonial duties.
In prior remarks, President Tinubu had condemned the escalating violence in Benue, calling on all parties involved to renounce violence and instead embrace peace, mutual respect, and love. He extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reiterated his administration’s unwavering determination to restore order and peace to Nigeria’s conflict-affected regions.
