By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, to sustain operational momentum against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, while maintaining discipline, resilience and professionalism.
This was contained in a statement issued on 17th October, 2026, by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele.
According to the statement, the COAS gave the charge on Saturday, 17th October, 2026, while addressing officers and soldiers at the 212 Tank Battalion Parade Ground, Maiduguri, Borno State, during an operational assessment visit to the North East theatre.
Lieutenant General Shaibu commended the troops for their courage, sacrifices and sustained offensive operations, which have significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and contributed to improved security across the region. He urged them to consolidate the gains recorded, maintain operational vigilance and intensify efforts towards the decisive defeat of terrorism.
He emphasized that discipline, combat readiness and unwavering commitment remain critical to operational success, reminding troops that the nation has confidence in their ability to restore lasting peace and stability to the North East.
Reaffirming his Soldier First philosophy, General Shaibu assured personnel of sustained attention to their welfare, including provision of modern combat equipment, improved accommodation, adequate medical support and timely troop rotation to enhance morale and operational effectiveness.
“You must remain disciplined, resilient and focused. The nation is proud of you and looks up to you for the final defeat of terrorism,” the COAS charged.
Earlier, the Army Chief received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ademola Ajose and Sector Commanders. The briefing highlighted the prevailing security situation, operational successes, emerging challenges and strategies for sustaining pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre.
In demonstration of his commitment to personnel welfare, Lieutenant General Shaibu also interacted with wounded soldiers, commending their courage and sacrifices. He assured them of continued medical attention, rehabilitation and institutional support.
The visit underscores the COAS’ commitment to frontline leadership, sustained operational readiness and improved troop welfare as the Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to eliminate terrorist threats and consolidate peace in the North East.
