Published by Naijajistreal96
The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and restoring lasting peace in Nigeria’s North East following a landmark operational visit to the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The visit, which took place on Thursday, January 1, 2026, was aimed at strengthening collaboration among the Armed Forces and assessing ongoing operations across critical theatres, particularly in the Lake Chad region.
Addressing troops at the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI, Vice Admiral Abbas extended New Year greetings to officers and men of the Joint Task Force, commending their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in the line of duty. He praised their unwavering commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting civilians from terrorist threats.
The Naval Chief conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for the operational gains recorded in curbing insurgency and other security challenges in the region. He urged the troops to remain steadfast, professional, and united as operations continue into the new year.
Vice Admiral Abbas stressed that enhanced jointness among the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force remains critical to defeating terrorism. According to him, effective collaboration improves operational efficiency, accelerates response time, and ensures sustainable security outcomes across the region.
He highlighted the Nigerian Navy’s strategic role in maintaining security across the Lake Chad waterways, describing maritime dominance as a key factor in disrupting terrorist supply routes and movement. He reaffirmed the Navy’s commitment to sustaining a strong presence in the waterways to support peace, security, and economic recovery in affected communities.
The CNS noted that significant progress has been made in reopening previously unsafe waterways, allowing fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume their livelihoods. He added that the restoration of socio-economic activities remains essential to achieving long-term stability in the region.
During the visit, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the Naval Chief and provided a detailed operational briefing on the activities of the Joint Task Force. He acknowledged the critical contributions of the Nigerian Navy, particularly in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime control has significantly enhanced operational success and regional stability.
Vice Admiral Abbas later proceeded to the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road for an on-the-spot assessment of naval facilities. He also visited the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga, where he interacted with troops stationed at Fish Dam.
As part of the operational tour, the Naval Chief conducted a riverine patrol of the Lake Chad waterways to evaluate the level of clearance achieved so far. The visit to Fish Dam concluded with a New Year luncheon with naval personnel, aimed at boosting morale and reinforcing camaraderie among the troops.
The CNS also paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, where he expressed appreciation for the state government’s continued support of military operations in the North East.
Vice Admiral Abbas assured the governor of sustained collaboration between the Nigerian Navy and the Borno State Government to secure waterways, protect communities, and promote socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum, in response, commended the Navy for its achievements and urged intensified operations to maintain peace and stability in the region.
The visit brought together senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders, and principal staff officers. Activities during the visit included operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial exchanges.
Observers say the visit underscores the Federal Government’s renewed focus on joint military operations as a cornerstone of its national security strategy. With continued coordination and sustained presence, security agencies remain optimistic about further degrading terrorist networks and restoring normalcy across the North East.
As Nigeria enters 2026, the Armed Forces have reiterated their resolve to protect lives, secure communities, and support economic recovery in conflict-affected regions, with the Lake Chad basin remaining a key operational priority.
Comments
Post a Comment
Comment