The Nigerian Army has deployed 178 additional troops to Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State following renewed security concerns and escalating attacks in the area.
The deployment, which took place at about 4:40 p.m. on September 25, 2026, was carried out to strengthen security operations under Sector 8 of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP). The move comes as communities in Mangu and surrounding LGAs continue to face killings, livestock destruction and reprisal attacks.
Why Army Deployed Fresh Troops to Mangu
According to security analyst Zagazola Makama, the troops were drawn from the 236 Tank Battalion and deployed in two batches of 89 personnel each. The contingent was led by the Commanding Officer of the battalion, Lt. Col. H.O. Obire.
Upon arrival at the Sector 8 headquarters in Mangu, the troops were received by the Commander of Sector 8 OPEP and have since commenced familiarisation with the sector's Area of Responsibility and operational mandate.
The reinforcement is expected to increase military presence in vulnerable communities and improve rapid response to emerging threats. The troops will also work alongside other security agencies to protect residents.
“The additional personnel are expected to increase troop presence in vulnerable areas and strengthen the capacity to respond quickly to emerging threats”
Security sources said the deployment is part of ongoing restructuring of Operation Enduring Peace to restore peace across Plateau. The latest move follows the military's decision in August to move its tactical headquarters to Mangu and launch Operation Hard Nut after deadly attacks.
NBA Raises Alarm Despite Troop Deployment
Despite the fresh deployment, the four branches of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) in Plateau State - Jos, Pankshin, Bukuru and Shendam - have criticised the handling of insecurity in the state.
At a joint press conference at the NUJ Secretariat in Jos, the lawyers said attacks continued even during curfew hours, citing the killing of vigilantes at Kikyo in Mangu and attacks in Cantoma, Bin-Per and Kasa village in Barkin Ladi.
The lawyers noted that the unabated cycle of violence undermines public confidence in government's ability to protect lives and property.
Plateau Government Urges Vigilance
The Plateau State Government has urged residents of affected communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information to prevent further attacks. Mangu and neighbouring Barkin Ladi, Riyom and Bokkos have been the most affected in recent weeks.
With the additional troops, the Army is expected to expand its presence in vulnerable locations and prevent further violence.
M2NICE Editorial Note: The deployment of 178 troops shows the Army is taking Mangu's security seriously, but previous deployments have not fully stopped attacks. Lasting peace in Plateau will need more than troops - it will need community dialogue, intelligence gathering and justice for victims.
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