By Gbenga Akingbule
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, on Saturday charged troops of Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai ( OPHK) to remain resolute and sustain the offensive against Boko Haram terrorists , days after an attack that claimed the lives of soldiers in Borno State
Gatekeepers News reports that Mairari community in Guzamala Local Government Area of Borno State came under attack by suspected Boko Haram terrorists, where some soldiers were reportedly killed and weapons and ammunition carted away .
Gen. Shaibu gave the charge during his visit to troops at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, where he urged them to sustain their fighting spirit and assured them of the provision of all necessary support and resources to achieve success in the fight against Boko Haram terrorists.
Despite the attack, the Army Chief commended the troops for the tremendous work they are doing to maintain peace and security in the State and other parts of the region. He urged them to remain committed to their mission, sustain their fighting spirit and continue to work towards restoring lasting peace and stability in the North-East.
COAS also called for greater collaboration among security agencies, stressing that a united approach, effective intelligence sharing and coordinated operations Is critical to defeating Boko Haram terrorists and other security threats in the region.
” This theatre is a joint theatre of operation where all security agencies contribute to the fight against insurgency, and I want to enjoin all commanders to continue to build synergy with other security agencies so that, together, we can dominate this area of responsibility.
” I’m here to see the officers and men and encourage them to continue to put in their best to ensure that we have a condusive environment where socio-economic activities can thrive – that’s just my mission.” The Army Chief said
On the forthcoming 2027 general elections, the Army Chief urged the troops to redouble their efforts towards ensuring a hitch-free electoral process by maintaining peace and security before, during and after the polls.
He charged the troops to remain vigilant and prepared to respond swiftly to emerging security threats, while assuring them that the Army Headquarters would provide all the necessary enablers to enhance their operational effectiveness and enable them to accomplish their mission successfully.
” As you’re determined, we at the Army Headquarters will provide you all the enablers to ensure that you do your job properly” COAS said.
The Army Chief said more is expected from the troops following the recent increase in their salaries by the Federal Government, stressing that “to whom much is given, much is expected.” He urged them to reciprocate the government’s gesture by demonstrating greater commitment, discipline and dedication to their duties.
He therefore commended the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and the hybrid forces for their invaluable contributions to the fight against Boko Haram terrorists in the North-East, urging them to sustain their collaboration with the military and other security agencies to restore lasting peace and security in the region.
