The Honourable Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, alongside the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammad Matawalle, on Tuesday, March 31, 2026, conducted an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters, Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, in Maiduguri.
The visit was aimed at assessing ongoing operations, strengthening strategic alignment, reinforcing the Federal Government’s commitment to the fight against terrorism, and engaging critical stakeholders within the theatre of operations.
The visit commenced with a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, His Royal Highness, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, at his palace. The ministers paid homage to the revered traditional ruler and expressed appreciation for his continued support to the Armed Forces and counter-insurgency efforts. They also acknowledged the resilience of the people of the North-East and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the region.
The delegation then proceeded to the Borno State Government House, where they were received by the Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, on behalf of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. The Deputy Governor conveyed the appreciation of the state government and its people for the sacrifices of troops and the support of the Federal Government. In response, the ministers reiterated their commitment to sustaining military operations and strengthening collaboration with the state to enhance security across the region.
In honour of fallen heroes, the ministers visited the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri, where they laid wreaths in tribute to gallant personnel who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation. The gesture underscored the nation’s enduring gratitude and commitment to the welfare and legacy of its fallen soldiers.
At the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, the ministers received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar. He highlighted recent achievements, including the neutralisation of over 280 terrorist elements during the Ramadan period, disruption of logistics networks, and the rescue of abducted civilians. He also outlined future operational plans and assured the ministers of the troops’ high morale and determination to defeat terrorism in the North-East.
Addressing journalists, the Minister of Defence commended the Armed Forces for the progress recorded, noting that the successes reflect improved coordination, resilience, and professionalism. He emphasised the need for sustained national support and reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to restore lasting peace and security across the country.
The visit also featured the inspection of a newly constructed Military Command and Control Centre, designed to enhance operational coordination, intelligence sharing, and real-time decision-making. In addition, the ministers commissioned newly built family accommodation for troops, initiated and funded by the Minister of Defence, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving troop welfare and morale.
The engagement concluded with an address to troops, during which the ministers conveyed the President’s appreciation for their sacrifices, courage, and dedication. They urged personnel to remain resolute, sustain operational momentum, and continue to deny terrorists freedom of action within the theatre. The visit ended on a high note, with troops expressing renewed motivation and confidence in the mission.
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, through Operation Hadin Kai, remain committed to sustaining coordinated land and air operations, consolidating gains, and working with relevant stakeholders to achieve the total defeat of terrorism and the restoration of lasting peace and economic stability in the North-East.