By Gabriel Ameh
In a strategic effort to appraise peace, security, and development in stabilised areas of the North East, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), through the Directorate of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), conducted a high-level media assessment tour of the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).
This was contained in a statement signed by Sani Uba Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information OfficerHeadquarters, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
According to the statement, thr three-day visit brought together senior defence correspondents and media professionals to independently evaluate ongoing military operations, civil-military engagements, and post-conflict stabilisation initiatives within the theatre.
Receiving the delegation at the Theatre Headquarters in Maiduguri, Theatre Commander Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive counter-insurgency strategy, with a strong focus on non-kinetic operations.
Major General Abubakar highlighted the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede’s vision for inclusive, people-centred operations and noted that the CDS and Service Chiefs remain media-friendly, fostering transparency and strategic communication across all operational theatres.
Stressing the importance of credible information in asymmetric warfare, the Theatre Commander urged the media to maintain balanced and responsible reporting to build public trust and national confidence. “Timely dissemination of verified information is critical in the evolving security environment facing our nation,” he said.
The Theatre Commander briefed the team on significant operational gains in multiple communities, noting that sustained military pressure has led to improved security, restoration of socio-economic activities, enhanced protection of vulnerable populations, and safer operating environments for humanitarian actors, including NGOs.
Group Captain Ibrahim Bukar, leader of the Defence Media Assessment Team, commended the CDS for fostering transparency, open-door policies, and strong civil-military-media relations. He described strategic communication as a force multiplier essential to modern military operations and emphasised that national security is a shared responsibility that benefits from professional media engagement.
Group Captain Bukar also lauded the troops of Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience and sacrifices, while expressing appreciation to the Theatre Commander for his leadership, warm reception, and comprehensive operational briefing.
During the tour, the team visited key operational locations, including the Joint Investigation Centre, Forward Operating Base (FOB) Tunkushe, and FOB Molai, where first-hand assessments of ongoing activities were conducted.
The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, marking a milestone in strengthening transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
