Sustaining Operational Momentum in the Fight Against Terrorism in the North East

Strategic Insights -

Major General Uwem Bassey, the Chief of Operations (Army), has emphasized the importance of sustaining operational momentum and embracing innovative strategies in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North East. As part of a two-day operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command OPHK, Maiduguri, Bassey conveyed the commitment of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to directly engage with commanders, review progress, and address challenges requiring immediate intervention. The visit aimed to assess operational effectiveness, boost troops' morale, ensure strategic alignment, and provide direct support in the theatre.

Key Takeaways:

  • Major General Uwem Bassey has charged field commanders of Operation Hadin Kai to sustain operational momentum and embrace innovative strategies in the fight against terrorism in the North East.
  • The visit aimed to assess operational effectiveness, boost troops' morale, ensure strategic alignment, and provide direct support in the theatre.
  • The Army Operations Chief emphasized the importance of jointness in operations, calling on land, maritime, and air components of OPHK to sustain and strengthen cooperation with other security agencies.
  • Bassey commended the synergy already achieved between the Nigerian Army, Hybrid Forces, and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), noting that collective effort is crucial in dismantling terrorist networks.
  • He reiterated the Nigerian Army's zero tolerance for indiscipline and cowardice in the theatre, urging personnel to make full use of available firepower to deal with terrorists decisively.
  • Bassey cautioned against acts of double-dealing, warning that intelligence leaks to terrorists undermine troops and endanger local communities.
  • He emphasized the importance of staying focused and resolute, declaring that troops, working in close coordination with other components and agencies, would continue to sustain aggressive operations to dominate the battlefield and deny terrorists freedom of action.

Statistics:

  • The visit to Headquarters Theatre Command OPHK, Maiduguri, was conducted on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede.
  • The operation covers key locations including 21 Armoured Special Brigade, Bama; 151 Battalion, Banki Junction; 152 Battalion, Banki; and Forward Operating Base (FOB) Bula Yobe.
  • The Nigerian Army has a zero tolerance policy for indiscipline and cowardice in the fight against terrorism.
  • The Hybrid Forces and CJTF have been commended for their cooperation and contributions to the fight against terrorism in the North East.

Sources:

  • Major General Uwem Bassey, quoted from "Operations in North East".
  • Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
  • Headquarters Theatre Command OPHK, Maiduguri.