The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of Operation HADIN KAI to intensify offensive operations and maintain high vigilance in the fight against terrorist groups operating in Nigeria’s North East.

The Army Chief gave the directive during an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force North East in Maiduguri on Saturday, March 7, 2026.The visit, according to military authorities, was aimed at evaluating the security situation in the theatre, assessing operational effectiveness and strengthening coordination among security agencies involved in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.“Take the Fight to the Terrorists” — COASAddressing troops during the visit, General Shaibu commended the gallantry, resilience and sacrifices of soldiers under Operation HADIN KAI for their efforts in protecting civilians and weakening terrorist networks across the region.

He urged them to remain vigilant and sustain the current operational momentum to ensure that the remaining elements of terrorist groups are completely neutralised.According to the Army Chief, troops must maintain maximum situational awareness and adopt a more aggressive operational posture, particularly as the holy month of Ramadan approaches its final phase. “The days of remaining in defensive positions are over. Our troops must continue to take the fight directly to the terrorists wherever they are found,” he said.

Focus on Intelligence and CoordinationGeneral Shaibu also stressed the importance of stronger intelligence gathering, improved operational coordination among military units and deeper collaboration with other security stakeholders to consolidate the gains already achieved in the counter-insurgency campaign.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed the Army Chief on recent operational developments, key achievements and the challenges currently facing troops in the theatre. The commander assured the COAS that troops remain highly motivated and committed to restoring lasting peace and security in the North East.The commander noted that despite isolated operational setbacks recorded in some locations, the morale and fighting efficiency of soldiers remain high.

Commitment to Peace in the North East Operation HADIN KAI continues to serve as Nigeria’s primary military campaign against insurgent groups operating in the North East, particularly in states heavily affected by terrorism. Military authorities say the renewed directive by the Army Chief signals a sustained push to dismantle the remaining terrorist strongholds and ensure lasting stability in the region.