By Micah Jonah
January 26, 2026
Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian military’s resolve to intensify operations aimed at decisively ending insurgency in the North-East region.
Major General Abubakar spoke on Saturday, January 24, 2026, during the combined West African Social Activity (WASA) for 2025, co-hosted by Headquarters Theatre Command OPHK and Headquarters 7 Division, Nigerian Army, at the 212 Parade Ground, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
Describing WASA as “an enduring tradition of the Nigerian Army,” he said the event preserves military ethics, traditions, and customs while fostering social interaction among troops, their families, and well-wishers. It also marks the conclusion of the Army’s activities 2025.
“The event offers us the opportunity to reflect on our operational engagements over the past year,” the Theatre Commander said, noting significant progress in restoring law and order across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. He attributed the relative peace to the dedication, resilience, and sacrifices of troops, operating under the Command Philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Major General Abubakar expressed gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR; the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; and Service Chiefs for their strategic guidance, improved logistics, and enhanced welfare support for personnel. He assured that Operation HADIN KAI would intensify efforts to eliminate remaining terrorist elements in Borno and other parts of the North-East.
Representing the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Secretary to the State Government, Honourable Bukar Tijjani, commended the Nigerian Army for maintaining peace and security. He pledged continued support from the state government and residents for OPHK’s mission and paid tribute to fallen heroes while praying for the recovery of wounded personnel.
Delivering the vote of thanks, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 OPHK, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, thanked the Borno State Government for its unwavering support, expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander, heads of sister security agencies, and other stakeholders for their contributions to peace in the joint operational environment.
The WASA event featured vibrant cultural displays representing Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, a tug-of-war between the Nigerian Army and Nigeria Police Force, comedy performances, awards to outstanding soldiers of the year, a suya competition, presentation of souvenirs to special guests, the beating of the retreat, and the ceremonial lighting of the bonfire, which climaxed the celebrations.
