Defence Ministry Permanent Secretary Hails 6 Brigade’s Security Efforts.
By Christiana Babayo.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Defence (MOD), Mr. Richard Pheelangwa, on Thursday, 8 January 2026, paid a maiden courtesy visit to the Headquarters of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in Jalingo, Taraba State.
During the visit, Mr. Pheelangwa commended the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, for his effective leadership and sustained efforts in ensuring peace and security across Taraba State.
According to a statement by the Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations, Lt Umar Muhammad, the Permanent Secretary particularly lauded the Commander’s personal presence and operational oversight during security engagements in Jalingo and Jen communities of Karim Lamido Local Government Area, noting that these efforts contributed significantly to maintaining calm and boosting public confidence, especially during the Yuletide period.
The Permanent Secretary also praised officers and soldiers of the Brigade for their discipline, professionalism, and commitment to duty, describing their conduct as exemplary and reflective of the core values of the Nigerian Army.
He urged the formation to sustain its current operational tempo and strengthen civil-military relations, which he noted have been instrumental in curbing insecurity and unrest within the state and its environs.
In his response, Brigadier General Uwa expressed appreciation to the Permanent Secretary for the visit and words of encouragement. He reaffirmed the loyalty and dedication of officers and men of 6 Brigade to the constituted authority, assuring that the formation would continue to uphold the highest standards of discipline and professionalism in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities in Taraba State.
Earlier in the day, the Commander, 6 Brigade/Sector 3 OPWS, accompanied by senior officers of the Brigade, paid a courtesy visit to Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) Wesley Tafida, a World War II veteran, at his residence in Jalingo.
The 106-year-old veteran, who is also the father of retired Major General H. T. Wesley, warmly received the delegation and expressed appreciation for the visit.
RSM Tafida commended Brigadier General Uwa for his leadership and commitment to securing the state, while sharing experiences from his military service during World War II between 1944 and 1945.
He recalled serving as a courier responsible for conveying arms and ammunition and disclosed that he was later discharged from 93 Mechanised Infantry Battalion, Ojo Cantonment, after seven years of meritorious service, having attained the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major.
The twin engagements highlight the Nigerian Army’s commitment to operational excellence, civil-military cooperation, and the honouring of veterans who have rendered distinguished service to the nation, while sustaining peace and security in Taraba State.