The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd), alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, on March 31, 2026, visited the Headquarters of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri to assess ongoing operations and reinforce the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating terrorism.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, who noted that the visit also aimed to engage key stakeholders and boost troop morale.
The visit began with a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, where the ministers expressed appreciation for the traditional ruler’s support for military operations and commended the resilience of the people of the North East.
At the Borno State Government House, they were received by the Deputy Governor, who conveyed the state’s gratitude for the sacrifices of troops. In response, the ministers reaffirmed the Federal Government’s resolve to sustain military operations and deepen collaboration with the state to enhance security.
The ministers also paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri, laying wreaths in honour of troops who lost their lives in the line of duty.
At the theatre command, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the ministers on recent operations, revealing that over 280 terrorists were neutralised during the Ramadan period, alongside significant disruptions to their logistics networks and the rescue of abducted civilians.
Addressing journalists, the Defence Minister commended the Armed Forces for their professionalism and progress, stressing that the gains recorded reflect improved coordination and resilience. He reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore peace and tackle insecurity nationwide.
The visit also featured the inspection of a newly built Command and Control Centre aimed at boosting operational efficiency, as well as the commissioning of newly constructed accommodation for troops to improve their welfare.
In their address to troops, the ministers conveyed the President’s appreciation and urged them to remain steadfast, sustain momentum, and continue denying terrorists freedom of action.
Operation HADIN KAI, the Armed Forces noted, remains focused on consolidating gains through coordinated land and air operations, with the ultimate goal of defeating terrorism and restoring lasting peace in the North East.
