The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has applauded troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, for their bravery, resilience and unwavering sacrifices in defending Nigeria against security threats.
Vice Admiral Abbas gave the commendation during a landmark visit to the Headquarters of Operation HADIN KAI in Maiduguri, Borno State, where he met with officers and men of the task force as part of his New Year engagements.
Addressing the troops, the Naval Chief extended warm New Year greetings and praised their dedication and professionalism in the face of persistent security challenges.
“Your courage, resilience and professionalism in the line of duty are highly commendable. The Nigerian Navy remains fully committed to sustaining a strong presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, security and economic recovery in the region,” Abbas said.
He also conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation to the troops for their operational successes in degrading terrorist activities, urging them to remain focused and sustain the momentum.
The CNS emphasised the importance of inter-service cooperation, noting that effective joint operations among the Armed Forces enhance efficiency, ensure quicker response to threats and strengthen overall national security.
Highlighting the positive impact of improved security, Vice Admiral Abbas noted that the reopening of critical waterways has enabled fishermen, farmers, traders and transport operators to resume their livelihoods, contributing to the gradual socio-economic revival of affected communities.
He stressed that sustained naval presence, alongside close collaboration with other security agencies, remains vital to maintaining peace and supporting local populations.
Earlier, the Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the Naval Chief and presented a comprehensive briefing on ongoing operations. He acknowledged the Nigerian Navy’s critical role in achieving maritime dominance and enhancing stability in the region.
During the visit, Vice Admiral Abbas also inspected the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road and the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga. He interacted with personnel at Fish Dam, conducted a riverine patrol to assess waterway clearance efforts and later hosted a New Year luncheon with the troops.
The Naval Chief further paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, thanking him for his continuous support and pledging stronger collaboration to secure the waterways and promote economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements and called for intensified operations to sustain peace in the state.
The visit brought together senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders and principal staff officers. It featured operational briefings, interactive sessions and ceremonial engagements.
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