COAS Charges Troops to Sustain Offensive Against Terrorists, Assures Improved Welfare in North East
Maiduguri, Borno State—October 17, 2026—Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu has charged troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, to sustain the offensive against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists while maintaining the highest standards of discipline, resilience, and professionalism.
The Army Chief gave the charge on Saturday while addressing officers and soldiers at the 212 Tank Battalion Parade Ground in Maiduguri during an operational assessment visit to the North East theatre.
Commendation for Courage and Gains
General Shaibu praised the troops for their courage, sacrifices, and sustained offensive operations, which he said have significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and contributed to improved security across the region.
He urged them to consolidate the gains already recorded, remain operationally vigilant, and intensify efforts towards the decisive defeat of terrorism.
He reminded the personnel that the nation places its confidence in their ability to restore lasting peace and stability to the North East.
Soldier First Philosophy Reaffirmed
Reaffirming his “Soldier First” philosophy, the COAS assured the troops of continued attention to their welfare. This includes the provision of modern combat equipment, improved accommodation, adequate medical support, and timely troop rotation to boost morale and operational effectiveness.
“You must remain disciplined, resilient, and focused. The nation is proud of you and looks up to you for the final defeat of terrorism,” General Shaibu charged.
Briefing and Interaction with Wounded Soldiers
Earlier, the Army Chief received a comprehensive operational briefing from Theatre Commander Major General Ibikunle Ajose and Sector Commanders.
The briefing covered the prevailing security situation, operational successes, emerging challenges and strategies for sustaining pressure on terrorist elements.
In a further demonstration of his commitment to personnel welfare, Lieutenant General Shaibu interacted with wounded soldiers.
He commended their courage and sacrifices in defence of the nation and assured them of continued medical attention, rehabilitation, and institutional support.
The visit underscores the COAS’s focus on frontline leadership, sustained operational readiness, and improved troop welfare as the Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to eliminate terrorist threats and consolidate peace and security in the North East.
This report is based on the official statement issued by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, on October 17, 2026.
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