Army Chief Orders Troops to Prepare for Final Push Against Terrorists in North-East

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has charged troops of the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), to brace up for a decisive offensive against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists, declaring that the coming phase of operations will determine the success of Nigeria’s long-running counter-insurgency campaign.

Addressing soldiers at the OPHK headquarters in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Friday, Shaibu said the Nigerian Army was entering a critical stage in the war and must not fail.

“You have been training to defeat the terrorists that have been disturbing the North-East. This time, you are going to do it differently. All combat enablers have been provided. New platforms have been introduced—all to ensure that you succeed,” he told the troops.

The Army Chief emphasised that this new phase belongs to a “new generation of soldiers”, urging them to surpass the achievements of those who fought in previous missions.

“Those before you have done it. This is your own time,” he declared.

He noted that the Army had deployed battle-tested officers and enhanced combat capabilities in the theatre, including new surveillance systems, precision strike assets, and improved mobility platforms to give troops an operational edge.

Shaibu warned that despite the gains made against Boko Haram and ISWAP, both groups continue to exploit border vulnerabilities and harsh terrain around the Lake Chad axis, posing a renewed threat to stability in the region.

Military analysts have cautioned that global geopolitical shifts, extremist propaganda, and arms smuggling routes could embolden insurgents if Nigeria fails to sustain its current momentum.

The COAS also focused on troop welfare, which he described as crucial to morale and effectiveness.

“Your welfare has been taken care of—from improved ration cost allowance to prompt payment of your entitlements and better medical care. We will continue to improve your well-being,” he assured.

He further announced plans to expand accommodation and educational opportunities for soldiers and their families.

“We will ensure your children attend the best schools—our command and Army children’s schools,” he added, drawing applause from the troops.

During his two-day visit to Borno, Lt. Gen. Shaibu also:

• Visited wounded soldiers at the 7 Division Medical Specialists Hospital,
• Paid a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno,
• Inspected Nigerian Army Aviation/TB2 Armed Drone (Guardian) Hangar,
• Reviewed repaired armoured vehicles and equipment, and
• Commissioned the new Heroes Accommodation for transit soldiers.

He returned to Abuja on Friday, reaffirming that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in bringing the insurgency to an end.

“We will decisively defeat terrorism and reclaim peace in the North-East,” Shaibu said.

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