Governor Agbu Kefas Backs New Army Headquarters in Jalingo to Smash Cross-Border Crimes

Efforts to wipe out cross-border terrorism, arms trafficking, and illegal migration along Nigeria’s eastern frontiers have received a major boost following the operational take-off of the newly established 10 Division of the Nigerian Army in Jalingo.

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, described the creation of the army division as a timely and strategic move while receiving members of the Nigerian Army Order of Battle Review Committee, led by Major General B.T. Ugiagbe, at the Taraba Governor’s Lodge in Abuja.

The establishment of 10 Division—approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu—reconfigures the nation’s military command structure. Under the new arrangement, the division takes direct operational responsibility over Taraba and Adamawa States, removing them from the jurisdiction of the 3 Division in Jos to enhance battlefield responsiveness and local surveillance.

Welcoming the military leadership, Governor Kefas pointed out that Taraba’s unique geographical footprint—sharing boundaries with six Nigerian states and maintaining an extensive international border with Cameroon—demands a permanent and heavily fortified military presence.

“Taraba State occupies a strategic position with unique security demands,” Governor Agbu Kefas stated. “The operationalization of this new division will not only strengthen security in our border local government areas like Kurmi, Takum, Gashaka, and Sardauna, but it will also boost investor confidence, attract critical infrastructure, and stimulate economic growth across both Taraba and Adamawa States.”

Pledging his administration’s total cooperation, Governor Kefas committed to providing suitable land for the construction of permanent military barracks, logistics bases, medical centers, training facilities, and ammunition storage units required for the division’s operational readiness.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Major General Ugiagbe assured the governor that the military high command is committed to deploying modern operational equipment and personnel to Jalingo. He noted that the ongoing transition will significantly enhance border protection and ensure lasting peace for residents across the region.