A joint operational assessment visit to Sector 3 of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Baga, Borno State, has been conducted by Major General Godwin Mutkut, Force Commander, Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK).
Wednesday’s visit focused on evaluating ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the Lake Chad waterways and ensuring the optimal use of platforms and equipment deployed in the theatre.
The commanders were given detailed briefings by Brigadier General Emmanuel Agada, Commander of the 403 Amphibious Brigade, and Commodore Peter Yilme, Commander of Naval Base Lake Chad, during the visit, on measures to secure the waterways, protect economic activities, and deny terrorists freedom of action.
In his remarks, the Force Commander, MNJTF, Maj Gen Mutkut, stressed the need for close monitoring of troops’ performance, effective coordination, and sustained vigilance, noting that the stability of the Lake Chad Basin is in the collective interest of all member nations.
He emphasised that the success of military operations in the Lake Chad Basin was in the collective interest of all countries bordering the lake, and urged commanders to sustain vigilance and coordination.
On his part, the Theatre Commander, OPHK, Maj Gen Abubakar commended the troops’ efforts and urged commanders to maintain maximum alertness, aggressive posture, and professionalism in dealing with terrorist threats.
He further underscored the importance of providing security cover for farming and fishing activities, describing them as vital to livelihoods in the Lake Chad region.
“Troops must demonstrate the highest level of commitment in protecting the waterways to enhance farming and fishing, which remain critical to the survival of local communities,” the Theatre Commander said.
He also tasked commanders to prioritize troops’ welfare, strengthen communication channels, and ensure judicious application of operational resources.
The joint visit was attended by Component and Formation Commanders, senior staff officers of the MNJTF and Headquarters Theatre Command as well as the Commander Sector 3 OPHK, Brigadier General Suleiman Tilawan.
Highlights included a tour of operational facilities, signing of the visitors’ book, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
Source: SANI UBA, Media Information Officer
Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai
