By Segun Ibiloye

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, alongside the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, arrived in Maiduguri on Wednesday, 18 March 2026, for an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI, less than 24 hours after the recent suicide bombings in the Maiduguri Metropolitan Council.
The visit underscores the urgency attached to the evolving security situation in the North East, as top military leadership moved swiftly to evaluate ongoing operations and reinforce frontline strategies.
Addressing officers and troops at Maimalari Cantonment, the defence chief commended their resilience, sacrifice, and sustained pressure on terrorist groups operating across the theatre, noting that their efforts continue to degrade insurgent capabilities.
He urged personnel to remain steadfast and mission focused, directing field commanders to intensify offensive operations, strengthen intelligence gathering, and adopt proactive and innovative strategies aimed at dominating the operational environment and preventing further attacks.
He further stressed the importance of synergy among the armed forces and other security agencies, noting that joint operations remain critical to achieving lasting stability in the region.
The defence chief also called for increased vigilance in both urban and rural areas, warning that adversaries may attempt to exploit soft targets, and emphasizing the need for improved surveillance and rapid response mechanisms.
In addition, he highlighted the need to sustain the morale of troops through effective leadership at all levels, urging commanders to prioritise the welfare and motivation of personnel engaged in frontline duties.
He assured troops of continued strategic backing from Defence Headquarters, including the provision of necessary logistics, equipment, and operational support required to maintain the current momentum.
He reiterated the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the North East, expressing confidence that with sustained pressure and coordinated efforts, a decisive victory against terrorism remains achievable.