In a continued demonstration of the Federal Government’s dedication to restoring peace and stability in Nigeria’s Northeast, the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, accompanied by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, OFR, undertook an operational visit to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The visit aimed to assess the operational readiness of troops, reinforce high-level support for frontline personnel, and review ongoing efforts toward lasting peace in the region. Dr. Matawalle’s presence underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to supporting the Armed Forces in their mission to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Operation Hadin Kai, meaning “cooperation” in Hausa, is a counter-insurgency operation of the Nigerian Military in the Northeastern parts of the country, launched in 2021 as a successor to Operation Lafiya Dole. The renaming reflects a strategic shift towards a more collaborative approach in combating insurgency, emphasizing joint efforts among military units and with civilian stakeholders.
Since its inception, Operation Hadin Kai has achieved significant successes in degrading terrorist capabilities and restoring relative peace to affected areas. Notably, the operation has led to the rescue of numerous civilians held captive by insurgents, including the liberation of individuals abducted in high-profile incidents.
The operation has also seen the dismantling of terrorist enclaves, such as the notorious ‘Timbuktu Triangle,’ and the recovery of substantial amounts of weaponry and other resources from insurgents.
Dr. Matawalle’s visit to the Operation Hadin Kai headquarters serves as a morale booster for the troops and a reaffirmation of the government’s resolve to provide the necessary support and resources to ensure the security in the Northeastern parts of the country.