The Defence Headquarters, through the Directorate of Defence Media Operations, has led a high-level media assessment tour to the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), as part of efforts to evaluate the sustainability of peace, security and development in stabilised areas of the region.
The three-day tour brought together senior defence correspondents and media professionals to independently assess ongoing military operations, civil-military engagements and post-conflict stabilisation initiatives within the theatre.
Receiving the delegation at the Theatre Headquarters in Maiduguri, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, reaffirmed the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive, people-centred counter-insurgency strategy, with strong emphasis on non-kinetic operations.
He highlighted the strategic vision of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that the CDS and Service Chiefs remain media-friendly and committed to strengthening strategic communication across all operational theatres.
Major General Abubakar stressed the critical role of credible and responsible media reporting in asymmetric warfare, urging journalists to sustain balanced reportage that builds public trust and national confidence.
He added that the timely dissemination of verified information remains vital in the current security environment.
The Theatre Commander also briefed the delegation on significant operational gains across several communities, attributing improved security to sustained military pressure.
He noted the restoration of socio-economic activities, enhanced protection of vulnerable populations and improved access for humanitarian organisations.
Earlier, the team leader, Group Captain Ibrahim Bukar, commended the CDS for promoting transparency, an open-door policy and robust civil-military-media relations.
He described strategic communication as a force multiplier and a key element of modern military operations, emphasising that national security is a collective responsibility.
Group Captain Bukar further praised troops of Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience and sacrifices, while appreciating the Theatre Commander for his leadership and detailed operational briefing.
As part of the tour, the Defence Media Assessment Team visited key operational locations, including the Joint Investigation Centre, Forward Operating Base Tunkushe and FOB Molai, where on-the-spot assessments were conducted.
The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, reinforcing efforts to strengthen transparency, accountability and public confidence in the operations of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
