Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar
North-East Nigeria is witnessing a major turnaround in security, thanks to intensified military efforts and tighter collaboration among security forces, according to Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar,
In a recent interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Maiduguri, the general emphasized that the region has become “more secure than it has been in years,” citing the impact of sustained counter-insurgency operations and strategic coordination among agencies.
> “The Armed Forces of Nigeria have maintained the initiative across the theatre,” Abubakar noted, “denying terrorists freedom of movement and disrupting their logistics networks.”
He explained that while the insecurity in the North-East is part of a wider global trend influenced by instability in regions like the Sahel and conflicts such as the Russia–Ukraine war, Nigerian forces have not only held their ground but are now pressing forward.
Since late 2024, there has been an uptick in terrorists using advanced technology like armed drones and remote-controlled IEDs. According to Abubakar, these are spillovers from global conflicts, yet the military has stayed ahead of the curve.
> “Our objective remains clear – to flush out terrorists from their last hideouts in Sambisa Forest, the Mandara Mountains, and the Lake Chad Islands,” he said.
Terrorist Commanders Eliminated, Camps Cleared
Abubakar revealed that in just the last two months, over 26 senior terrorist commanders have been eliminated, with large caches of arms, vehicles, and equipment recovered.
> “Many of their camps have been destroyed, forcing survivors to scatter into isolated pockets,” he explained. “Normal life is returning. Markets have reopened, schools are in session, and roads once deemed dangerous now witness regular movement.”
Crippling the Enemy’s Lifeline
He credited the military’s strategic clampdown on terrorist supply chains as a major victory.
> “We have crippled their logistics. Several IED factories have been shut down, and their supply convoys intercepted,” Abubakar stated, highlighting a notable July 2025 operation in Dikwa that uncovered over 50 IEDs.
From July to September 2025, more than 257 insurgents were neutralised, with hundreds of others surrendering alongside their families. He added that improved air support and anti-drone systems have helped reduce drone attacks.
> “The theatre of operation continues to shrink for them. Our troops are pushing harder every day,” he said.
Border Communities: Attacks Are ‘Desperate Acts‘
In response to recent attacks in border communities such as Kirawa, Abubakar described them as “desperate attempts” by a weakened enemy to regain relevance.
> “These are not signs of strength. We’ve reinforced Kirawa with additional troops, armoured vehicles, and surveillance units. That axis is now fully under control,” he assured.
Covering nearly 130,000 square kilometres, OPHK’s area of operation remains vast, but improved deployment strategies and local partnerships have boosted security coverage.
Abubakar reaffirmed the military’s resolve to secure every inch of the region, urging residents to support ongoing efforts through timely intelligence and withholding aid from insurgents.
> “This is not just a military fight – it’s a societal effort. Communities play a vital role in cutting off terrorist lifelines,” he said.
Voices from the Ground: Peace in Sight
Community leaders and returnees praised the military’s visible presence and quick action.
Alhaji Bukar Modu, an elder from Gwoza, expressed gratitude for the improved security.
> “We used to hear gunshots all the time. Now, we sleep peacefully. People even travel to markets in Pulka and Gwoza without fear,” he shared.
Similarly, Mrs. Falmata Bakura, a returnee from an IDP camp in Maiduguri, spoke highly of the troops’ conduct.
> “The soldiers patrol round the clock. Their presence alone gives us courage. Our kids are back in school, and we can now return to our farms,” she said.
Abubakar concluded by commending his troops for their bravery, noting that while the path to lasting peace is ongoing, “the North-East is steadily reclaiming its future.”
NAN
