The Nigerian military has initiated tactical changes across its operations in response to a fresh wave of violent attacks in Plateau, Borno, and several other states across the country.

The shake-up, which commenced on Thursday with the Nigerian Army, is expected to extend to the Nigerian Air Force and the Navy in the coming days, according to high-ranking military sources.

The changes involve strategic redeployments of top officers aimed at bolstering ongoing counter-insurgency and internal security operations.

Among the key redeployments, Major General A.E. Abubakar has been appointed as the new Theatre Commander for Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), the military’s flagship operation against insurgents in the North East.

He replaces Major-General Shuaibu Waidi, who took over the post in January 2024. Major-General A.K. Ibrahim has also been posted as the new Commandant of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) in Kaduna.

Other notable redeployments include Major-General B.I. Alaya, now Director-General of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON); Major-General M.K. Gara; and the new Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major-General K.O. Ukandu.

The restructuring comes amidst growing concerns over escalating insecurity in the North East. Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, had earlier raised alarm over increasing insurgent activities in the state.

Speaking during an expanded Security Council meeting in Maiduguri last Tuesday, Zulum warned that the state risked slipping back into turmoil if urgent action was not taken.

“Many military locations were dislodged, especially in Wulgo, Sabongari, and Wajirko among others. It seems we are losing ground… Peace has gradually returned to Borno within the last three years, but we are witnessing sporadic attacks in recent times,” he said.