Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, Chief of Naval Staff, visited Operation HADIN KAI Headquarters in Maiduguri, urging stronger joint military operations to combat terrorism. His landmark visit highlighted the Navy’s role in securing Lake Chad waterways, restoring livelihoods, and fostering socio-economic growth in Borno State.

Naval Chief’s Landmark Visit to North East Theatre: Strengthening Joint Operations for National Security

In a powerful start to the new year, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, paid a landmark visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State, on January 1, 2026.

The visit underscored the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to enhancing synergy among the Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and restoring peace in the North East.

Commending Troops and Renewing Commitment

Vice Admiral Abbas extended heartfelt New Year greetings to the troops, praising their courage, resilience, and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation. He conveyed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation for their operational successes and urged them to sustain the momentum in curbing terrorist activities.

The CNS emphasized the importance of jointness, noting that collaboration among the Armed Forces ensures rapid response to threats, strengthens national security, and enhances operational efficiency.

Securing Lake Chad and Reviving Livelihoods

Highlighting the Navy’s role in the Lake Chad region, Vice Admiral Abbas reaffirmed the service’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence on the waterways. He pointed to significant progress in reopening critical routes, enabling fishermen, farmers, traders, and transport operators to resume their livelihoods. Sustained naval patrols, he stressed, remain vital for protecting communities and supporting socio-economic revival.

Operational Briefings and Facility Inspections

The Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the CNS and briefed him on ongoing operations. He commended the Navy’s contributions in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime dominance has been key to regional stability.

Vice Admiral Abbas also inspected facilities at the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road, interacted with troops at the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga, and conducted a riverine patrol to assess clearance efforts. The visit concluded with a morale-boosting New Year luncheon with troops at Fish Dam.

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Courtesy Call on Borno State Governor

During a courtesy call on Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, the CNS expressed gratitude for the state’s support and pledged continued collaboration to safeguard waterways and drive socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s achievements and encouraged intensified operations to maintain peace in the region.

A United Front for Peace and Security

The visit brought together senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders, and principal staff officers. It featured operational briefings, interactive sessions, and ceremonial exchanges all reinforcing the Armed Forces’ united front against terrorism.