Defence Ministers Storm North-East Theatre, Hail Troops’ Gains, Renew War on Terror
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
Nigeria’s Defence Minister, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd.) has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s determination to crush terrorism, following a high-level operational visit to the North-East theatre, where troops have recorded significant battlefield successes, including the neutralisation of over 280 insurgents.
The development was disclosed in a press release issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, dated March 31, 2026.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, alongside the Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, undertook the operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri to evaluate ongoing operations, strengthen strategic coordination and reinforce government’s commitment to ending insurgency in the region.
During the visit, the ministers paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr) Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, where they “expressed deep appreciation for his sustained support to the Armed Forces and ongoing counter-insurgency efforts,” while also acknowledging “the resilience of the people” and reaffirming “the government’s support to the North East region.”
At the Borno State Government House, the delegation was received by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur on behalf of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum. The deputy governor conveyed “the appreciation of the Government and people of Borno State for the continued sacrifices of troops and the Federal Government’s support.
” In response, the ministers reiterated “the Federal Government’s commitment in sustaining military operations and strengthening collaboration with the State Government,” assuring of “intensified efforts to enhance security across the region.”
In a solemn moment, the ministers visited the Military Cemetery in Maiduguri where they laid wreaths in honour of fallen soldiers, paying tribute to “gallant troops who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation,” a gesture described as underscoring “the nation’s enduring gratitude and commitment to the welfare and legacy of its fallen warriors.”
At the Theatre Command Headquarters, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the ministers on recent operational achievements. He disclosed that troops recorded “significant milestones… including the neutralisation of over 280 terrorist elements during the Ramadan period, disruption of their logistics networks, and rescue of abducted civilians.”
He also assured that troops remain committed, with “unwavering commitment, high morale and determination… to decisively defeat terrorism in the North East region.”
Addressing journalists, the Minister of Defence commended the military for “the remarkable progress recorded in ongoing operations,” noting that the successes reflect “improved coordination, resilience and utmost professionalism of troops.” He stressed “the need for sustained national support to the military” and reiterated the Federal Government’s resolve under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu “to decisively address insecurity and restore lasting peace across the country.”
The visit also featured the inspection of a newly constructed Military Command and Control Centre aimed at enhancing “operational coordination, intelligence fusion and real-time decision-making.” The ministers further commissioned newly built family accommodation for troops, with the Defence Minister reaffirming “the government’s commitment to improving troops welfare and boosting morale.”
In their final engagement, the ministers addressed troops directly, conveying the President’s appreciation for their “sacrifices, courage and steadfastness,” while urging them to “remain resolute, sustain the current operational momentum and continue to deny terrorists freedom of action across the Theatre.”
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, through Operation HADIN KAI, reaffirmed their commitment to sustained joint operations, consolidation of gains, and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve “the total defeat of terrorism and restoration of enduring peace and economic stability in the North East region.”
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