COAS charges Operation Hadin Kai troops to sustain vigilance, aggressive posture against terrorists

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has urged troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Nigeria’s North East to maintain unwavering vigilance and aggressive operations against lingering terrorist elements.

Speaking during an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai in Maiduguri on Saturday, March 7, 2026, the COAS praised the troops’ efforts.

“He commended the gallantry, resilience and sacrifice demonstrated by personnel of OPHK in defending innocent civilians and degrading terrorist elements across the theatre,” a statement by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at the headquarters, said on Sunday.

The visit focused on evaluating the security situation, operational effectiveness, and collaboration with stakeholders to tackle remaining threats.

Lieutenant General Shaibu stressed coordination, intelligence, and momentum.

“The COAS emphasised the importance of effective coordination among units, robust intelligence gathering and improved operational posture to consolidate the successes already recorded,” the statement noted.

He directed troops to deny terrorists freedom of action, especially during Ramadan’s final phase.

“The days of remaining in defensive positions are over,” the Army Chief declared, insisting troops “must continue to take the fight to the terrorists wherever they are found.”

Earlier, Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar briefed the COAS on recent activities, achievements, and challenges.

“The Theatre Commander assured the COAS of the troops’ continued professionalism, utmost commitment and patriotism noting that the morale and fighting efficiency of personnel remain high,” the statement added.