In a bid to strengthen operational synergy in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North East, the Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has paid a landmark operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Addressing troops during the visit, Vice Admiral Abbas extended New Year greetings and commended officers and men for their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation. He conveyed the appreciation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the operational successes recorded in curbing terrorist activities across the theatre and urged personnel to sustain the momentum.
The Naval Chief stressed the importance of jointness among the Armed Forces, noting that effective collaboration enhances operational efficiency, enables rapid response to threats, and strengthens national security. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence on the Lake Chad waterways in support of peace, security, and economic recovery in the region.
Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted progress made in restoring socio-economic activities through the reopening of critical waterways, which he said has enabled fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume their livelihoods. According to him, sustained naval presence and close coordination with sister services remain vital to maintaining security and supporting local communities.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the CNS and presented a detailed briefing on the activities of the Joint Task Force. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the Nigerian Navy in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime dominance has been central to operational success and regional stability.
As part of the visit, the CNS proceeded to the Naval Base Annexe along Monguno Road for an on-the-spot assessment of facilities, before moving to the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga. There, he interacted with troops at Fish Dam and conducted a riverine patrol of the Lake Chad waterways to assess the level of clearance achieved so far. The operational visit to Fish Dam concluded with a New Year’s luncheon hosted by the CNS for the troops.
Vice Admiral Abbas also paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, where he thanked the state government for its support and pledged continued collaboration to safeguard waterways and promote socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements in the region and urged intensified operations to sustain peace and stability.
The visit was attended by senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders, and principal staff officers. Activities during the visit featured operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial engagements.
The visit underscored the Nigerian Navy’s resolve, alongside other services, to consolidate gains against terrorism and support long-term stability and development in the North East.
