Nigeria’s top defence officials have reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ending insurgency in the North-East following a high-level visit to troops in Borno State.
The Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Christopher Musa (retd.), alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, visited the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri to assess ongoing military operations and boost troop morale.
Boosting Troop Confidence
During the visit, the defence chiefs commended soldiers for what they described as significant progress in the fight against insurgency, attributing recent gains to improved coordination and professionalism among the armed forces.
They also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s appreciation to the troops, urging them to remain focused and sustain the pressure on insurgents.
Honouring Fallen Heroes
As part of the visit, the ministers paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the Maiduguri Military Cemetery, laying wreaths in honour of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.
They also inspected a newly completed Command and Control Centre designed to strengthen intelligence gathering and operational coordination, alongside newly built accommodation aimed at improving the welfare of military personnel.
Progress on the Battlefield
Briefing the delegation, Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar revealed that troops had neutralised over 280 insurgents during the Ramadan period, disrupted supply routes, and rescued several abducted civilians through coordinated land and air operations.
Renewed Push for Security
The visit also included meetings with the Shehu of Borno and state officials, where the defence team acknowledged the resilience of residents and promised stronger collaboration with local authorities to restore lasting peace.
Their reassurance comes at a critical time, following a surge in attacks in March 2026, including deadly explosions in Maiduguri that claimed lives and left many injured, shaking the relative calm in the city.
Despite these challenges, the government insists that military operations will continue with intensified efforts to dismantle insurgent networks and prevent further attacks.
