Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Wadi Shaibu, has urged troops of Operation Hadin Kai to intensify their efforts to guarantee a peaceful and secure environment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Army Chief gave the charge on Saturday in Maiduguri, Borno State, during an operational visit to the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, where he met with theatre, sector and unit commanders before addressing troops at the 21 Brigade Battalion Parade Ground.
Speaking to journalists after a closed-door meeting with senior military commanders, Lt. Gen. Shaibu said his visit was aimed at encouraging officers and soldiers to remain focused on their mission as political activities gather momentum across the country.
“I am here in Maiduguri at the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Command Headquarters, North East Joint Task Force, to see officers and men of the military, to encourage them to put in their best, talk to them and ensure we have a peaceful and conducive environment as we are approaching the general election and the electioneering campaign period,” he said.
The COAS later addressed troops at the 21 Brigade Battalion Parade Ground shortly after visiting the military hospital and medical facilities within the theatre.
He commended the sacrifices of the personnel in the fight against terrorism and urged them to remain dedicated, disciplined and more responsive to operational demands.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu assured the troops that the Army leadership stands firmly behind them and pledged continued support to improve their welfare and operational effectiveness.
He also told the soldiers that President Bola Tinubu and the Presidency appreciate their courage and sacrifices in defending the country against insurgency and other security threats.
The Army Chief encouraged the troops to remain brave, professional and committed to their constitutional responsibilities, stressing that their efforts remain critical to sustaining peace and stability in the North-East.
His visit comes at a time security agencies are strengthening operations across the region to consolidate gains against insurgents and create a safe atmosphere ahead of political campaigns for the 2027 general elections.
Operation Hadin Kai has continued to lead military operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the North-East, with troops sustaining clearance missions, destroying terrorist enclaves and protecting communities across Borno and neighbouring states.
