Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar
Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force, North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s determination to completely end insurgency in the North-East and the Lake Chad Basin.
General Abubakar stated that troops under his command remain “focused and resolute” in sustaining offensive operations until lasting peace is achieved across the theatre of operations.
He gave the assurance on Saturday while delivering his welcome address at the 2025 Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Christmas Luncheon, organised by the 7 Division of the Nigerian Army at the 212 Battalion Parade Ground, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
According to him, the festive season coincides with the Army’s dry-season operations, stressing that celebrations would not distract troops from their mission.
> “The Christmas celebration coincides with our dry season operations in the theatre. I therefore assure the COAS of the unwavering commitment of our gallant forces to maintain the tempo of operations,” he said.
The Theatre Commander commended the Chief of Army Staff for his numerous interventions, noting that the provision of critical assets and platforms has significantly enhanced operational effectiveness.
> “Our air operations have received additional impetus and have been quite lethal in recent months, leading to the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of their critical assets and logistics,” Abubakar stated.
He disclosed that from May 2025 to date, OPHK recorded notable achievements, including the neutralisation of 438 JAS/ISWAP terrorists, the recovery of 254 assorted weapons, the rescue of 366 civilians from terrorist enclaves, and the recovery of 300 Starlink communication devices.
General Abubakar also revealed that new Forward Operating Bases have been established at Duji and Kekeno, further strengthening the military’s presence in critical areas.
On humanitarian efforts, he described the resettlement of internally displaced persons as a major milestone, made possible through the support of the Borno State Government (BOSG).
> “Communities such as Mallam Fatori, Darel Jamel, Delwa, Kekeno and most recently Mairari have shown remarkable resilience with the support of the BOSG,” he said.
He further noted that the surrender of 881 JAS/ISWAP fighters and their families underscores the progress made in the theatre.
The Theatre Commander explained that the Christmas Luncheon was organised to appreciate the sacrifices of troops and other security agencies, in line with the COAS Command Philosophy anchored on a “soldier-first culture.”
> “Today, we are essentially here to say thank you for the good job you are doing for this great nation,” he added.
Abubakar also paid tribute to wounded soldiers receiving treatment in Maiduguri, Abuja, Kaduna, Kano and outside Nigeria, assuring them of the Army’s continued support.
> “We commend your gallantry and patriotism. The COAS has placed utmost priority on ensuring you receive the best care and treatment,” he said.
He equally honoured fallen personnel who paid the supreme price in the line of duty, praying for eternal rest for their souls.
Commending Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, the Theatre Commander thanked him for his consistent support to OPHK, particularly the donation of security gadgets and combat enablers over the past six months.
> “These interventions have significantly enhanced our operational capabilities, especially in surveillance, intelligence gathering, secure communication and rapid response,” Abubakar said.
He also acknowledged the role of traditional rulers, other security agencies, government officials and non-governmental organisations, describing their collaboration as vital to counter-insurgency efforts in the region.
General Abubakar concluded by assuring all stakeholders that OPHK would leave no stone unturned in fulfilling its mandate, while urging troops to remain steadfast in their commitment to restoring peace and security in the North-East.
