By Harriet Tornguvan
The Commander, Corps of Artillery (CCA), Major General John Adeyemo, has paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), as part of efforts to enhance operational effectiveness and sustain stability in the region.
The visit, aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations, aligns with the vision and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu. Major General Adeyemo said the engagement was designed to assess and evaluate artillery resources deployed in the theatre and to conduct an on-the-spot appraisal of artillery platforms supporting ongoing operations.
He noted that the visit also provided an opportunity to interface with key operational stakeholders to identify challenges and improve coordination. Describing artillery as a critical enabler of effective firepower, the CCA stressed the Corps’ commitment to sustaining coordinated and decisive support for troops in the field.
“I am here to walk the talk,” he said, while conveying the COAS’ special season’s greetings to officers and soldiers of OPHK. He reaffirmed the unwavering support of the Corps of Artillery to the theatre’s counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency efforts.
Major General Adeyemo commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his professional and innovative leadership in addressing security challenges in the North-East. He also praised the synergy and cohesion within the theatre, as well as the gallantry and resilience of the troops, whom he described as warriors and gallant soldiers.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander expressed appreciation to the CCA for undertaking the visit despite the festive season, describing artillery as a vital component of the Nigerian Army’s firepower whose contributions to operations in the theatre remain indispensable.
He reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to the optimal utilisation of critical combat enablers, particularly artillery platforms, to ensure sustained operational effectiveness.
Major General Abubakar expressed confidence that challenges identified during the visit would be promptly addressed under the leadership of the CCA, further enhancing operational outcomes.
During the visit, Major General Adeyemo received comprehensive briefings on OPHK activities, achievements and operational challenges, which he described as insightful. He assured that deliberate efforts would be made to address identified gaps to improve coordination and overall mission success.
The CCA is also scheduled to inspect selected artillery platforms and commission projects within the theatre. Highlights of the visit included detailed operational briefings, robust deliberations by senior officers, signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph.
