By Favour Chioma
📍Maiduguri, Borno State | Security Report
The Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA), Major General Philip Ilodibia, has conducted an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operations.
During the visit on Tuesday, 21 April 2026, Major General Ilodibia received detailed briefings on the operational activities and progress of the theatre command. He stated that the visit was aimed at gaining first-hand insight into the technical operations of the newly deployed Modular Earth Observation Outpost (MEOO) and enhancing collaboration between the Defence Space Administration and the theatre command.
He explained that the assessment would help identify areas requiring improved intelligence support, faster information flow, and enhanced efficiency within the command-and-control structure of ongoing military operations.
The CDSA reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Space Administration to provide additional technical assistance, address operational gaps, and escalate key challenges to the military high command for prompt action.
He also commended the theatre for its sustained successes in stabilization operations, particularly in supporting the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the North East.
Major General Ilodibia further extended condolences to the families of fallen personnel, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander expressed appreciation for the visit, noting that it would enhance operational effectiveness and lead to actionable recommendations to strengthen ongoing missions.
He praised the technical contributions of the Defence Space Administration, stating that the integration of the MEOO system had contributed to recent operational gains in the theatre.
He reaffirmed Operation HADIN KAI’s commitment to sustaining operational momentum towards achieving lasting peace and stability in the region, while ensuring precision in targeting to minimize civilian harm and optimize resource use.
The visit was attended by senior military officers including the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa; Director of Earth Observation, Air Vice Marshal Ayodele Hanidu; Acting GOC 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 OPHK, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu; and Principal Staff Officer to the CDSA, Colonel Bala Musa, among others.
Activities during the visit included inspection of the Quarter Guard, tour of the Military Command and Control Centre, operational briefings, interactive sessions with personnel, presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph.
The visit underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to integrate advanced space-based intelligence systems into counter-terrorism operations in the North East.
