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), reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to sustaining counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in the region.
The visit, which took place on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, was aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and strengthening the deployment of artillery assets in support of ongoing efforts to stabilise the North-East. It also aligns with the vision and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu.
Speaking during the visit, Major General Adeyemo said the engagement was designed to assess and evaluate Artillery Corps resources deployed in the theatre, as well as to conduct on-the-spot inspections of artillery platforms supporting Operation HADIN KAI. He noted that the visit provided an opportunity to interact with key operational stakeholders and identify areas requiring improvement.
Describing artillery platforms as critical assets in modern warfare, the CCA stressed their importance in delivering coordinated and effective firepower. He conveyed the COAS’ season’s greetings to officers and troops of OPHK and assured them of the Corps of Artillery’s unwavering support in the fight against terrorism and insurgency.
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 high level of synergy and cooperation within the theatre, lauding 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 Commander Corps of Artillery for undertaking the visit despite the festive season. He described artillery as a vital component of the Nigerian Army’s firepower, noting that its contributions to operational success in the theatre remain indispensable.
Major General Abubakar reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to the optimal utilisation of all combat enablers, particularly artillery platforms, to ensure sustained operational effectiveness. He expressed confidence that challenges identified during the visit would be promptly addressed by the Corps of Artillery.
During the visit, the CCA received detailed operational briefings on the activities of OPHK, including achievements and challenges. He described the briefings as comprehensive and assured that steps would be taken to address identified gaps to enhance coordination and overall operational success.
As part of the tour, Major General Adeyemo is expected to inspect selected artillery platforms and commission projects within the theatre. Highlights of the visit included operational briefings, strategic deliberations by senior officers, signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
