The Chief of Army Staff, COAS Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, to sustain offensive operations against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP terrorists.
Shaibu urged the troops to maintain the highest standards of discipline, resilience and professionalism in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign.
In a statement issued on Saturday, October 17, 2026, by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief gave the charge while addressing officers and soldiers at the 212 Tank Battalion Parade Ground in Maiduguri, Borno State, during an operational assessment visit to the North-East theatre.
He commended the troops for their courage, sacrifices and sustained offensive operations, noting that their efforts had significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and contributed to improved security across the region.
The COAS urged the personnel to consolidate the gains recorded, remain vigilant and intensify efforts towards the decisive defeat of terrorism.
He stressed that discipline, combat readiness and unwavering commitment remained critical to achieving operational success, reminding the troops of the nation’s confidence in their ability to restore lasting peace and stability to the North-East.
Shaibu also assured the personnel of sustained attention to their welfare, including the provision of modern combat equipment, improved accommodation, adequate medical support and timely troop rotation to boost morale and operational effectiveness.
“You must remain disciplined, resilient and focused. The nation is proud of you and looks up to you for the final defeat of terrorism,” he charged.
Earlier, the Army Chief received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ademola Ajose, alongside sector commanders.
The briefing covered the prevailing security situation, operational successes, emerging challenges and strategies for sustaining pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre.
As part of his visit, Shaibu also interacted with wounded soldiers, commending their bravery and sacrifices in defending the nation.
He assured the injured personnel of continued medical attention, rehabilitation and institutional support, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to their welfare and recovery.
