Members of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Taraba State have honoured the outgoing Commander of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Brigade, Brigadier General Kingsley C. Uwa, for his contributions to improved security across the state.
The honour was conferred on the senior military officer at a farewell dinner organised in his honour in Jalingo.
Speaking at the event, Brigadier General Uwa urged residents of Taraba State to sustain their cooperation, trust and support for the incoming Brigade Commander, stressing that lasting peace could only be achieved through collective responsibility and active collaboration between the military and the public.
As observed by our reporter, the outgoing commander expressed appreciation to the people of the state for their cooperation, support and timely intelligence sharing, which he described as critical to the operational successes recorded by the 6 Brigade during his tenure.
“I am grateful for the trust and partnership we enjoyed from communities across the state. These efforts made it possible to achieve the progress we recorded,” Uwa said.
In his remarks, the Chief of Staff of the 6 Brigade commended the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for the gesture, noting that such recognition boosts troop morale and strengthens civil–military relations.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Coalition in the state, Dr. Joseph Gimba, said the relative peace currently being enjoyed in Taraba State was largely attributable to the leadership style and operational strategies of Brigadier General Uwa. According to him, the security situation in the state improved significantly following Uwa’s assumption of command.
“We once lived in fear; today, we live with hope,” Gimba said, describing the improved sense of safety now felt in many communities.
Other speakers at the event also applauded the outgoing commander for his professionalism, intelligence-led operations and inclusive engagement with host communities, noting that the mutual trust built between the military and civilians was central to the security gains recorded.
The event, held at the Blue Nile Hotel in Jalingo metropolis, attracted civil society leaders, security officials and government representatives. Speakers recalled a period when kidnapping, banditry and intimidation were widespread in parts of the state, forcing residents to live in fear and uncertainty.
The dinner also drew high-profile dignitaries, including the Federal Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Abuja, whose presence underscored the national importance of the peace-building efforts in Taraba State.
Participants who spoke with our reporter described the gathering as more than a social event, but a symbol of mutual respect and a shared commitment to peace, security and development in the state.