The Theatre Command, Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) and the Government of Adamawa State have reaffirmed their joint commitment to strengthening security architecture, improving response mechanisms, and safeguarding lives and property across the state and the wider North East region. This assurance was given during a 3 days operational assessment visit by the Theatre Commander of OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, to the state, following recent security developments.
This was contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba media information officer HQ JTF North East operation hadin Kai issued to newsmen.
It said the three (3) days operational assessment visit was conducted between Thursday 30th April and Saturday 2nd May, 2026. During the visit to Adamawa State Government House, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri ably represented by the Deputy Governor, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta expressed appreciation to the military for their continued role in enhancing security in the state despite the recent setbacks.
“Adamawa State remains committed to maintaining its status as a safe haven. We will continue to invest in human capital, technology, and security infrastructure to support ongoing operations and enhance safety across the state,” she stated. The state also commended the critical role played by community-based actors such as vigilantes, hunters, and forest guards noting that their local knowledge and direct stake in the community make them indispensable partners in maintaining peace and preventing insecurity. Investments in mobility, surveillance systems, and digital technology to improve intelligence gathering and response time was also promised.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar stated that his visit was aimed at conducting a comprehensive operational assessment to address emerging threats and strengthen ongoing efforts in the region. He commended the consistent support of the state government to military operations. Highlighting key developments, he recalled the operationalization of Sector 4 under Operation HADIN KAI in August 2025, established to bridge security gaps between Southern Borno and Northern Adamawa. The sector currently covers 10 local government areas spanning approximately 16,000 square kilometres of complex terrain. He noted that due to the vast operational area, the military has adopted a multi-layered approach that combines troops deployment with technology-driven solutions and community engagement.
According to him, ongoing efforts by Defence and Army Headquarters include the deployment of special forces, provision of critical combat enablers, and the training and empowerment of local security groups to serve as first responders in remote communities. Major General Abubakar disclosed that additional military formations have also been approved by the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM to strengthen presence and operations in the state. He stressed that while troops deployment remains essential, modern security challenges require enhanced investment in surveillance technology and improved intelligence systems to enhance rapid response capabilities.
Addressing troops, hunters, and vigilantes at Mubi and Tella Balla in Gombi LGA, the Theatre Commander urged heightened vigilance, noting that ongoing intensive military offensives in other sectors of OPHK would likely push hostile elements into new areas. He emphasized the importance of protecting vulnerable communities, strengthening intelligence gathering, and identifying collaborators who aid terrorist elements. The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to reassess and reinforce security strategies across the North-East, with the goal of ensuring lasting peace, stability, and protection for all citizens.
The Theatre Commander was accompanied by the Commander Sector 4 OPHK, Brigadier General Amaechi Agwu, other Field Commanders from the theatre, Principal Staff Officers of Headquarters Theatre Command OPHK amongst others. Highlights of the visit included the inspection of the Quarter Guard, operational briefings, interactive sessions, address to troops, exchange of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register and group photographs.
