COAS charges troops to sustain offensive against Boko Haram, ISWAP

Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, to sustain their offensive against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists to consolidate security gains in the region.

Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday 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.

According to a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja by the Nigerian Army spokesperson, Col Appolonia Anele, the Army Chief commended the troops for their courage, sacrifices and sustained offensive operations, which had significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and contributed to improved security across the region.

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He urged the troops to consolidate the gains recorded, maintain operational vigilance and intensify efforts towards the decisive defeat of terrorism.

Emphasising the importance of discipline, combat readiness and unwavering commitment to operational success, Shaibu reminded the troops of the nation’s confidence in their ability to restore lasting peace and stability to the North-East.

Reaffirming his Soldier First philosophy, the COAS assured 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 said.

Earlier, the Army Chief received an operational briefing from the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, and sector commanders.

The briefing covered the prevailing security situation, operational successes, emerging challenges, and strategies for sustaining pressure on terrorist groups across the theatre.

Shaibu also interacted with wounded soldiers, commending their courage and sacrifices in defence of the country.

He assured them of continued medical attention, rehabilitation and institutional support.

The visit underscored the COAS’s commitment to frontline leadership, sustained operational readiness and improved troop welfare as the Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to eliminate terrorist threats and consolidate peace and security in the North-East.