The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI has successfully conducted change of command ceremonies across Sectors 1, 2, and 3, reaffirmed continuity in counter-terrorism operations and sustained military pressure against insurgents in the North-East region.
The development was disclosed in a statement on Thursday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, who noted that the transitions were seamless and in line with military traditions aimed at ensuring operational stability and continuity in the fight against terrorism.
In Sector 1, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 OPHK, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, handed over command to Brigadier General Solomon Diwa at the Headquarters 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
Speaking during the ceremony, Brigadier General Unachukwu described his tenure as “challenging yet rewarding,” noting that the division was being handed over in a more stable condition with significant operational gains recorded. He commended brigade and field commanders for their dedication and urged troops to maintain operational momentum despite the transition in leadership.
The new commander, Brigadier General Diwa, pledged to consolidate on the achievements of his predecessor through improved operational effectiveness, innovation, and adherence to the Chief of Army Staff’s command philosophy geared towards building a combat-ready force capable of joint and multi-agency operations.
Similarly, in Sector 2, Damaturu, Yobe State, Brigadier General Beyidi Martins handed over command to Brigadier General Edet Effiong during a ceremony attended by senior officers and personnel.
In his farewell remarks, Brigadier General Martins appreciated officers and soldiers for their professionalism, resilience, and support throughout his tenure, which he said witnessed improved troop morale, operational successes, and stronger civil-military relations within the area of responsibility.
Taking over command, Brigadier General Effiong praised his predecessor’s leadership and promised to intensify ongoing operations while prioritising professionalism, discipline, adaptability, and collaboration with local communities to tackle emerging security threats.
In Sector 3, Monguno, Borno State, Brigadier General Shehu Ahmed assumed command from Major General Suleiman Tilawan in a colourful ceremony that also marked the transition of command within the Multinational Joint Task Force component of the sector.
Major General Tilawan expressed gratitude to officers and troops for their loyalty and sacrifices, attributing the sector’s operational successes to teamwork and commitment. He urged personnel to extend full support to the incoming commander.
In his remarks, Brigadier General Ahmed assured troops of his commitment to sustaining offensive operations, enhancing operational efficiency, and improving personnel welfare in order to strengthen efforts aimed at restoring peace and stability across the region.
Highlights of the ceremonies included the signing of handing-over notes, symbolic transfer of command flags, operational briefings, presentation of souvenirs, visits to key locations and stakeholders, as well as group photographs.
The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI reiterated its commitment to sustaining the current operational tempo across all sectors, denying terrorist groups freedom of action, and ensuring the safety and security of residents in the North-East.
