The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has called on troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) to remain vigilant, avoid complacency, and sustain the aggressive posture that continues to yield gains in the fight against terrorism in the North East.
General Shaibu gave the charge during an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (JTF NE OPHK) in Maiduguri. The visit focused on reviewing the security landscape, evaluating operational effectiveness, strengthening strategic coordination, and deepening collaboration with security agencies to tackle persistent threats across the region.
Addressing the troops, the Army Chief commended their courage, resilience, and commitment to safeguarding the nation. He urged them to maintain a high level of alertness and operational aggressiveness to deny terrorist groups any opportunity to regroup or launch attacks.
During a separate session with senior officers of the theatre command, General Shaibu emphasised the importance of close supervision, effective coordination, improved intelligence gathering, and sustained pressure on terrorist elements to consolidate ongoing successes.
The Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, earlier briefed the COAS on current operations, recent achievements, and the challenges faced by troops in the theatre.
As part of the visit, the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, paid a courtesy call on the Army Chief. Governor Zulum congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment as the 25th Chief of Army Staff, describing his elevation as well deserved. He noted that Shaibu’s extensive operational experience in the North East has contributed significantly to reducing insurgency in the state and the broader region.
The Governor expressed confidence that the new COAS would build on ongoing efforts to eliminate remaining insurgent elements and restore durable peace to Borno and neighbouring states. He reaffirmed the state government’s unwavering support and partnership with the Nigerian Military and other security stakeholders.
While commending the remarkable progress recorded by OPHK troops, Governor Zulum urged them to remain undeterred by isolated security incidents and to stay focused on their mission.
Responding, the COAS thanked Governor Zulum for his consistent support and praised the strong collaboration between the state government and the military. He assured the Governor that the Nigerian Army is committed to intensifying operations to restore lasting peace and stability to the region.
Lieutenant General Shaibu was accompanied on the visit by Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters.
