Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, has instructed troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) to gear up for a pivotal phase in Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North-east.
Speaking to soldiers at the OPHK headquarters in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Friday, Shaibu emphasized that the Nigerian Army is entering a decisive stage of the counter-insurgency campaign, asserting that “failure is not an option.”
“You have been training to defeat the terrorists disturbing the North-east. This time, you are going to do it differently. All combat enablers have been provided. New platforms have been introduced all to ensure your success,” he said.
Shaibu noted that this phase would be spearheaded by a new generation of soldiers, encouraging them to build on and surpass the accomplishments of previous troops who served on both national and international missions.
The army chief’s remarks shows a sense of urgency, as intelligence indicates that Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, while weakened, are regrouping around the Lake Chad axis and taking advantage of porous borders.
Military experts warn that any delay in the planned offensive could undermine recent successes amid rising regional instability and intensified extremist propaganda.
Shaibu revealed that seasoned officers have been deployed to the theatre and that troops now have access to new equipment and modern technologies to aid operations.
He also reassured soldiers that their welfare remains a key priority. “From improved ration and prompt payment of allowances to enhanced medical care, we will continue to improve on your well-being,” he stated.
The army chief added that investments are being made in housing and education for soldiers’ children, emphasizing, “We will ensure your children attend the best schools our command and Army children’s schools.”
During his two-day operational visit to Maiduguri, Shaibu visited injured soldiers at the 7 Division Medical Specialists Hospital, inspected repaired armoured vehicles and the Nigerian Army Aviation/TB2 Armed Drone Hangar, commissioned new troop transit accommodation, and paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno.
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