By Harriet Tornguvan
The Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd), has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to defeating terrorism in the North East, following an operational visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The minister, accompanied by the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, undertook the visit to assess ongoing military operations, engage key stakeholders, and boost troop morale in the counter-insurgency campaign.
According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the visit commenced with a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, where the ministers commended the traditional ruler for his continued support to the Armed Forces and acknowledged the resilience of communities affected by insurgency.
At the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the ministers on recent operational successes.
He disclosed that troops neutralised over 280 terrorist elements during the Ramadan period, disrupted insurgents’ logistics networks, and rescued several abducted civilians through coordinated land and air offensives.
The commander also outlined future operational strategies, assuring that troops remain highly motivated and committed to sustaining momentum against insurgents in the theatre.
Addressing journalists, Musa praised the Armed Forces for what he described as “remarkable progress,” attributing the gains to improved coordination, resilience, and professionalism among troops.
He reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restoring lasting peace and tackling insecurity nationwide.
The delegation also visited the Borno State Government House, where they were received by the Deputy Governor on behalf of Governor Babagana Zulum. The state government expressed appreciation for the sacrifices of troops and ongoing federal support, while the ministers assured of sustained collaboration to enhance security across the region.
In honour of fallen soldiers, the ministers laid wreaths at the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri, paying tribute to troops who lost their lives in the line of duty. The gesture, they noted, reflects the nation’s enduring gratitude and commitment to preserving the legacy of its fallen heroes.
As part of the visit, the ministers inspected a newly constructed Military Command and Control Centre aimed at enhancing intelligence gathering, coordination, and real-time decision-making. They also commissioned newly built family accommodation for troops, reaffirming government’s commitment to improving welfare and boosting morale.
In a morale-boosting address to troops, the ministers conveyed the President’s appreciation for their sacrifices and urged them to remain resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action across the North East.
The visit concluded on a high note, with troops expressing renewed confidence and determination to sustain ongoing operations.
Operation HADIN KAI continues to lead Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts in the North East, with the Armed Forces pledging to consolidate recent gains and work collaboratively with stakeholders towards the total defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace in the region.
