The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has asked troops to prioritise joint operations to defeat terrorists operating in the North East region of Nigeria.
He made the call Thursday , January 1,2026 when he paid a working visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno state.
His visit was aims to strengthen operational synergy in the fight against terrorism in the North East, a statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba stated.
The CNS emphasised the importance of jointness among the Armed Forces, highlighting that collaboration enhances operational efficiency, ensures rapid response to threats, and strengthens national security.
Abbas reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, security, and economic revival in the region.
Addressing troops, Vice Admiral Abbas extended New Year greetings and commended their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation.
He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for the operational successes recorded in curbing terrorist activities and urged personnel to sustain their efforts.
CNS commended efforts to restore socio-economic activities, noting the significant progress in reopening critical waterways, which has enabled fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume livelihoods.
Abbas stressed that sustained naval presence and coordination with other services remain crucial for maintaining security and supporting local communities.
Welcoming the CNS, the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, briefed him on the activities of Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI.
General Abubakar acknowledged the tremendous contributions of the Nigerian Navy in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime dominance was key to operational success and regional stability.
The CNS, Vice Admiral Abbas, visited the Naval Base Annex along Monguno road for an on-the-spot assessment of the Naval facilities there.
He further proceeded to the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga, where he interacted with the troops at Fish Dam. He also went on a riverine patrol of the Lake Chad Waterways to assess the level of clearance so far.
The operational visit to Fish Dam ended on a high note with the CNS New Year Luncheon with the troops.
The Naval Chief later paid a courtesy call on Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum and thanked him for his support and continued collaboration to safeguard the waterways and promote socio-economic growth.
Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements and urged intensified operations to maintain peace in the region.
The visit brought together senior military officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders, and principal staff officers, featuring operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial exchanges.