By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Army has recorded a major battlefield breakthrough in the North-East, with troops of Operation HADIN KAI neutralising over 300 terrorists in a renewed offensive across key strongholds.
The Theatre Commander, Abdulsalam Abubakar, disclosed the development in Maiduguri while receiving a high-powered delegation from the Army Headquarters Department of Operations (AHQ DAOPS) on an assessment visit to the theatre.
According to him, the killings were recorded during the decisive phase of ongoing dry season operations, targeting notorious enclaves such as the Timbuktu Triangle, Sambisa Forest, and Mallamfatori.
He said the operation has significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and boosted troop morale, attributing the success to improved logistics, sustained administrative support, and the effective implementation of the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy.
The disclosure comes as the Army Headquarters steps up oversight of frontline operations, deploying the assessment team to evaluate performance and sustain the current operational gains.
Leading the delegation, Olubukola Olusanya, said the visit was aimed at reviewing operational activities, identifying gaps, and recommending strategic interventions to enhance effectiveness across all theatres.
He commended troops for the “tremendous successes” recorded, describing the operational briefing as both detailed and reflective of progress in the theatre.
Olusanya assured that the team would conduct a comprehensive and objective assessment, with feedback expected to further strengthen ongoing operations.
In his remarks, Major General Abubakar emphasised the importance of the visit, noting that external assessments remain critical in refining strategies and improving operational efficiency.
He urged the team to provide actionable recommendations that would consolidate gains recorded in the counter-terrorism campaign and further degrade insurgent networks.
The Army said the combination of sustained offensive operations, improved logistics, and a strengthened reward and sanction system has enhanced discipline among troops and encouraged more proactive and innovative battlefield tactics.
The visit, held at the Maimalari Military Cantonment, Maiduguri, also featured an interactive session between the delegation and theatre command, as well as presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph.
Military authorities say the renewed push is part of broader efforts to sustain pressure on terrorist groups and restore lasting stability in the North-East.