The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has issued a firm charge to troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) to maintain heightened vigilance and sustain an aggressive operational posture against terrorist elements across the North East.
General Shaibu delivered the directive during an operational assessment visit to Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, where he evaluated ongoing operations, reviewed strategic alignment, and strengthened collaboration with security stakeholders tackling persistent threats in the region.
Addressing the troops, the COAS commended their courage and resilience on the frontlines, urging them to avoid complacency and keep denying terrorists any freedom of action. He stressed that only sustained pressure, maximum situational awareness, and proactive engagement can consolidate recent gains.
The Army Chief also held an operational meeting with senior officers of the theatre command, emphasising the need for tighter supervision, stronger coordination, improved intelligence gathering, and a reinforced offensive mindset to maintain momentum in the fight against insurgency.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed General Shaibu on current operations, recent achievements, and emerging challenges affecting the theatre.
In a significant show of support, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, paid a courtesy visit to the COAS. He congratulated General Shaibu on his appointment as the 25th Chief of Army Staff, describing the appointment as “well deserved” and noting his outstanding operational experience in the theatre.
Governor Zulum praised the Army’s efforts, acknowledging the drastic reduction in insurgency recorded under OPHK. He expressed confidence that the new COAS would consolidate ongoing gains and further weaken the remnants of insurgent groups still operating in remote pockets.
He assured that the Borno State Government remains committed to continued collaboration with the Nigerian Military and other security agencies to safeguard the state and restore enduring peace.
While applauding the progress made, the Governor urged troops not to be distracted by isolated security incidents but to remain focused and resolute.
Responding, the COAS thanked Governor Zulum for the visit and reaffirmed the Army’s determination to intensify operations aimed at restoring lasting stability to Borno and the entire North East.
Lieutenant General Shaibu was accompanied on the visit by Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters.
COAS Storms Borno, Orders Troops to Stay Vigilant, Sustain Aggressive Push Against Terrorists
