The Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General AE Abubakar, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ending terrorism in the Northeast, despite recent isolated attacks by insurgents.
Speaking during a press briefing whose video was obtained by AFRIPOST, he provided updates on recent developments and ongoing military efforts in the region.
Major General Abubakar acknowledged the resurgence of attacks, describing them as a natural phase in warfare.
He emphasized that, although the terrorists have been largely degraded and normalcy has returned to many communities, insurgents continue to evolve in their tactics.
“In the last one week alone, over 20 terrorists have been neutralized, and several arms and ammunition recovered,” the commander stated.
He added that citizens have begun returning to their communities, citing Malam Fatori and Kukawa as success stories where nearly 20,000 internally displaced persons have resettled.
He attributed the resurgence in attacks to regional instability in the Sahel, where military barracks in neighboring countries have been overrun, and arms smuggled into Nigeria through porous borders.
“Two years ago, we were ready to say the conflict was over, but deteriorating security in Sahel states has reenergized the insurgency,” he said.
The commander also raised concerns about the evolving methods of attack by insurgents, including the recent use of armed drones since November 2024—devices that are often undetectable by conventional radar systems.
In response, the military has been re-strategizing. “In the past two months, we have reorganized operations and deployed additional platforms and personnel,” he said, adding that recent attacks in Iran, Kikwa, and Gajeran were repelled, except for one incident where four personnel were lost.
Major General Abubakar assured Nigerians of the military’s resolve.
“We will completely defeat terrorism and restore peace to the region in the shortest possible time. We only need the support of the nation.”
He urged remaining insurgents to surrender, pointing to the humane treatment of those who have laid down their arms.
“The military is fully resolved and resourced to bring this battle to a favorable conclusion. Our troops are motivated, and our resilience remains undampened,” he said.
Speaking to the broader Nigerian public, he called for greater collaboration with security forces.
“This entire theatre covers over 150,000 square kilometers—larger than many countries. One key epicenter, the Tumbuktu Triangle, spans over 11,000 square kilometers—larger than Rivers, Bayelsa, and Washington combined.”
He underscored the importance of community support in asymmetric warfare, quoting military strategist Sun Tzu: “You have to separate the water from the fish—that is, the terrorist from the populace.”
As part of ongoing efforts, the military recently intercepted 13,000 liters of petrol en route to a terrorist enclave—enough fuel to sustain insurgent motorcycle operations for a year.
“This is why citizens must assist by reporting suspicious movements. Security is a collective responsibility,” he said.
The briefing ended with a renewed call for unity in the fight against terrorism and assurance that victory is in sight.