The Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, Major General Waidi Shuaib has emphasised that soldiers’ welfare, discipline and mission readiness remain central to the military high command’s agenda.
The leadership of the Joint Task Force North East (OPHK) stated this when he undertook a three-day operational tour across Sector 2 formations between 29th and 31st July 2025, visiting key bases operating locations to boost the morale of soldiers and inspect critical combat enablers in the theatre of war.
During separate addresses to troops at Sector 2 Headquarters in Damaturu, 233 Battalion Damaturu, 159 Battalion Geidam, and Forward Operating Bases in Bukharti, Kanama, Babbangida and Kukurta, Shuaib conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Defence Staff and Service Chiefs for his ongoing sacrifices in the counter-insurgency campaign.
According to a statement by Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, “the Commander emphasised that the visit was not only to inspect troops’ deployments, feeding arrangements and accommodation, but to directly interact with personnel and address immediate operational concerns.”
Loyal
Troops were urged to sustain aggressive postures, intensify offensive manoeuvres, and remain loyal to the chain of command to ensure lasting peace returns to the North-East.
The Commander also conveyed the assurance of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, that outstanding acts of bravery and operational excellence would be recognised with benefits under the new theatre-approved welfare initiatives.
Social media usage
Troops were further reminded to adhere strictly to the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s policy on responsible social media usage and to route grievances through official military channels.
As part of the visit, the commander commissioned several projects, including the new Sector 2 Main Repair Group Vehicle Bay, and visited the Army Logistics Base 3, Level II Field Hospital in Damaturu, and other key infrastructure which supports combat efforts.
A symbolic highlight of the tour was the decoration of Inspector MD Yusuf who was elevated to the rank of Assistant Superintendent II of Police. The occasion also featured operational briefings, exchange of souvenirs, and group photographs with senior officers.
The Theatre Commander was accompanied by Acting Commander Sector 2 OPHK, Brigadier General Beyedi Martins, Commandant of the Nigerian Army Special Forces School, Component Commanders, and other top staff officers from Headquarters Theatre Command.
Lateefah Ibrahim