The Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has commended troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), for their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
According to a post by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force (North East)Operation HADIN KA, Lieutenant Colonel, Sani Uba, on the Nigerian Army’s X account on Thursday, Abbas, stated this when he paid a landmark visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Addressing troops, Abbas extended New Year greetings and commended their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
“Your dedication and professionalism in the face of persistent threats are commendable. The Nigerian Navy is committed to maintaining a strong presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, security, and economic revival in the region,” he said.
He conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s appreciation for operational successes in curbing terrorist activities and urged personnel to sustain their efforts.
The CNS emphasised the importance of joint operations among the Armed Forces, noting that collaboration enhances efficiency, ensures rapid response to threats, and strengthens national security.
He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, security, and economic revival in the region.
“Continue to work together, remain vigilant, and sustain the operational successes we have achieved,” Abbas said.
Highlighting progress in restoring socio-economic activities, Vice Admiral Abbas noted that reopening critical waterways has enabled fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume livelihoods. He stressed that sustained naval presence and coordination with other services remain crucial for maintaining security and supporting local communities.
The Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the CNS and provided a detailed briefing on the JTF’s activities, acknowledging the Navy’s critical contributions to maritime dominance and regional stability.
Vice Admiral Abbas also visited the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road and the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga. He interacted with troops at Fish Dam, conducted a riverine patrol to assess waterway clearance, and concluded the visit with a New Year luncheon with personnel.
The Naval Chief held a courtesy call with Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, thanking him for his support and pledging continued collaboration to safeguard the waterways and promote socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements and called for intensified operations to maintain peace 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. It featured operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial exchanges.
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