Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, has undertaken an operational visit to the North East Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating terrorism.
The visit, conducted on March 31, 2026, was aimed at assessing ongoing military operations, strengthening strategic coordination, and engaging key stakeholders in the counter-insurgency campaign.
During the visit, the ministers paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, where they commended the traditional ruler for his continued support to security efforts and acknowledged the resilience of communities affected by insurgency.
At the Borno State Government House, they were received by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, who conveyed appreciation on behalf of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum for the sacrifices of the Armed Forces and sustained federal support. The ministers, in response, assured of intensified collaboration to enhance security across the region.
In honour of fallen soldiers, the delegation visited the military cemetery in Maiduguri, where wreaths were laid in tribute to personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
At the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, the Theatre Commander, Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the ministers on recent operational achievements. He disclosed that troops neutralised over 280 terrorist elements during the Ramadan period, disrupted logistics networks, and rescued several abducted civilians.
Addressing journalists, Musa commended the Armed Forces for their professionalism and resilience, noting that recent gains reflect improved coordination in ongoing operations. He reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to restore peace and security nationwide.
The ministers also inspected a newly constructed Command and Control Centre designed to enhance intelligence coordination and real-time decision-making. They further commissioned newly built family accommodation for troops, underscoring the government’s commitment to personnel welfare.
In their address to troops, the ministers conveyed the President’s appreciation and urged personnel to sustain the current operational momentum. The visit concluded with renewed morale among troops, who expressed confidence in achieving lasting peace in the North East.
Operation HADIN KAI continues to play a critical role in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, with sustained land and air operations aimed at eliminating terrorist threats and stabilising the region.
