By ZAKAA LAZARUS
In a deliberate effort to enhance operational effectiveness and further stabilise the North-East region, the Commander Corps of Artillery (CCA), Major General John Adeyemo, on Wednesday, 24 December 2025, paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in line with the vision and command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu .
Speaking during the visit, Major General Adeyemo stated that the primary objective of the engagement was to conduct an operational assessment and evaluation of Artillery Corps resources deployed within the theatre.
He explained that the visit would also afford him the opportunity to carry out on-the-spot evaluation of artillery platforms supporting Operation HADIN KAI, as well as interface with key operational stakeholders.
“I am here to walk the talk,” the CCA said, stressing that artillery platforms remain vital assets for sustaining coordinated and effective firepower in ongoing operations. While conveying the COAS’ special season’s greetings to officers and troops of OPHK, Major General Adeyemo reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Corps of Artillery to supporting the theatre’s counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency efforts.
The CCA commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his professional and innovative approach in addressing security challenges in the North-East. He also applauded the synergy and cohesiveness in the Theatre. Major General Adeyemo further praised the gallantry and resilience of troops of OPHK, describing them as “warriors and gallant soldiers,” while reaffirming the Corps’ continued support to the theatre.
Earlier in his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, expressed appreciation to the Commander Corps of Artillery for his foresight, commitment, and sacrifice in undertaking the visit despite the festive season. He described artillery as a critical component of the Nigerian Army’s firepower, noting that its contributions to operations in the theatre cannot be overemphasised.
The Theatre Commander reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to ensuring that all critical combat enablers, particularly artillery platforms, are optimally utilised to guarantee sustained operational effectiveness. He expressed optimism that challenges identified during the visit would be promptly addressed by the Corps of Artillery, under the capable leadership of Major General Adeyemo.
During the visit, Major General Adeyemo received detailed briefs on the activities of OPHK, highlighting achievements and operational challenges in the theatre. He described the briefs as comprehensive and insightful, assuring that deliberate efforts would be made to address identified challenges to enhance coordination and overall operational success.
As part of the operational assessment tour, the CCA is scheduled to inspect selected artillery platforms and commission projects in the theatre.
Highlights of the visit included detailed operational briefings, robust deliberations by senior officers, signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
