MAIDUGURI, NIGERIA – April 28, 2025 – The Nigerian Army has officially appointed Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar as the new Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).
Consequently, he takes over from Major General Waidi Shaibu in a strategic leadership transition.
The handover ceremony took place at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri. Captain Reuben Kovangiya announced the event with enthusiasm.
Major General Abubakar brings extensive operational expertise to his new role, having commanded critical sectors in the counterinsurgency effort.
Previously, he led Sector 3 OPHK and the Multinational Joint Task Force in Mungono, demonstrating tactical proficiency.
Additionally, he served as General Officer Commanding of the 7 Division, where he strengthened security operations in the Northeast.
During the ceremony, Major General Shaibu thanked troops for their unwavering commitment throughout his tenure.
He described his service as both challenging and rewarding, emphasizing the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism.
Furthermore, he urged soldiers to extend the same dedication to Major General Abubakar, whom he endorsed as a highly capable leader.
The event featured the formal signing of transfer documents, followed by an address to troops and commemorative photographs.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to defeating insurgency under its new commander.
With his vast experience, Major General Abubakar is expected to enhance operational efficiency in the Theatre.
This leadership change comes as the military intensifies efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the region.
Recently, troops have recorded significant successes, including the neutralization of key insurgent leaders.
Moreover, enhanced air-ground coordination has disrupted enemy supply routes, weakening their operational capacity.
In his inaugural address, Major General Abubakar pledged to build on these gains through proactive strategies.
He emphasized intelligence-driven operations and community engagement to isolate terrorists.
Additionally, he vowed to prioritize troop welfare, ensuring soldiers remain motivated in the fight.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, commended the outgoing commander for his service.
He also expressed confidence in Major General Abubakar’s ability to sustain momentum in the counterterrorism campaign.
Simultaneously, he reiterated the Army’s resolve to restore lasting peace in the Northeast.
Local leaders have welcomed the new appointment, citing General Abubakar’s familiarity with the region.
They urged continued collaboration between security
forces and communities to deny terrorists sanctuary. Meanwhile, displaced persons expressed hope for accelerated stabilization efforts under the new leadership.
As Operation HADIN KAI enters this new phase, expectations remain high for decisive victories against insurgents.
The Theatre Command has already outlined plans to degrade enemy strongholds in the Lake Chad basin.
Furthermore, regional partnerships will be strengthened to prevent cross-border terrorist movements.
The Nigerian Army remains steadfast in its mission, leveraging both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches.
With Major General Abubakar at the helm, OPHK is poised to achieve greater operational successes.
Ultimately, this transition reinforces Nigeria’s commitment to securing the Northeast and fostering sustainable development.
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