The Nigerian Army has deployed 178 personnel from the 236 Tank Battalion to the Headquarters of Sector 8, Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP), in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The deployment, which took place at about 4:40pm on September 25, 2026, forms part of the Army’s ongoing restructuring efforts aimed at improving the effectiveness of security operations.
The initial contingent comprised two groups of 89 personnel each and was led by the Commanding Officer of the 236 Tank Battalion, Lt. Col. H.O. Obire.
The troops were received at the sector headquarters by the Commander, Sector 8 OPEP, following their arrival.
Security sources cited by Zagazola Makama said the newly deployed personnel immediately commenced familiarisation with the sector’s Area of Responsibility and its operational mandate.
The deployment follows growing security concerns in Mangu and surrounding communities, which have witnessed reports of attacks, killings, destruction of livestock and retaliatory incidents in recent weeks.
“The additional personnel are expected to increase troop presence in vulnerable areas and strengthen the sector’s capacity to respond to emerging security threats,” the source added.
The newly deployed troops are also expected to collaborate with other security and emergency response agencies operating in the area to safeguard civilians, prevent further attacks and sustain security across communities within the sector’s Area of Responsibility.
