RismadarVoice Reporters, April 1, 2026
Minister of Defence, alongside the Minister of State for Defence, on Tuesday visited the Headquarters Theatre Command of Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating terrorism.
The ministers, who undertook the operational visit to assess ongoing military efforts and engage key stakeholders, began with a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, where they commended the traditional ruler’s continued support for counter-insurgency operations and praised the resilience of the people of the North East.
At the Borno State Government House, the delegation was received by the Deputy Governor, who expressed appreciation for the sacrifices of troops and the Federal Government’s sustained backing. In response, the ministers reiterated their resolve to strengthen collaboration with the state government and intensify efforts to restore security across the region.
The visit also included a solemn stop at the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri, where wreaths were laid in honour of fallen soldiers who died in the line of duty, underscoring the nation’s gratitude for their sacrifice.
At the headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the ministers on ongoing operations. He disclosed that troops had neutralised over 280 terrorists during the Ramadan period, disrupted logistics networks, and rescued abducted civilians through sustained offensive and defensive actions.
Addressing journalists, the Defence Minister commended the Armed Forces for their professionalism and recent operational successes, attributing the gains to improved coordination and resilience. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to tackle insecurity and restore lasting peace nationwide.
As part of the visit, the ministers inspected a newly constructed Military Command and Control Centre aimed at enhancing operational coordination and intelligence gathering. They also commissioned newly built accommodation for troops, aimed at improving welfare and boosting morale.
In their address to troops, the ministers conveyed the President’s appreciation for their courage and dedication, urging them to sustain the current momentum and deny terrorists any operational space.
The visit concluded with renewed morale among personnel, who expressed confidence in achieving the mission of restoring peace to the North East.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining coordinated operations under Operation HADIN KAI, in collaboration with relevant stakeholders, to achieve the total defeat of terrorism in the region.
