Army Boosts North-East Operations as Artillery Commander Visits OPHK

By Zainab Bakare

The Commander Corps of Artillery (CCA), Major General John Adeyemo, has conducted an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force, North-East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK).

He also reaffirm the Nigerian Army’s commitment to defeating terrorism and stabilising the region.

According to a statement by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North-East, Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations in line with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff.

Speaking during the visit, Major General Adeyemo said the engagement was aimed at assessing artillery resources deployed in the theatre and ensuring their continued effectiveness in supporting ongoing operations.

“I am here to walk the talk. This visit allows me to evaluate firsthand the artillery platforms supporting Operation HADIN KAI and to interface with commanders on how best to enhance operational effectiveness,” he said.

He stressed that artillery remains a critical enabler in modern warfare, noting that sustained and coordinated firepower is essential to the success of troops operating in the North-East.

The Artillery Commander also conveyed the Chief of Army Staff’s season’s greetings to officers and soldiers of OPHK, assuring them of continued institutional support.

“The Corps of Artillery remains fully committed to supporting troops in this theatre as they continue to confront terrorism and other security threats,” Adeyemo added.

He commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his professional leadership and innovative approaches to addressing security challenges, while also praising the gallantry and resilience of troops in the field.

In his response, the Theatre Commander described the visit as timely and morale-boosting for personnel, expressing appreciation to the CCA for the assessment tour.

“Artillery remains a vital component of our firepower, and its contributions to operations in this theatre cannot be overstated,” Major General Abubakar said.

He assured that OPHK would continue to ensure optimal utilisation of all combat enablers, particularly artillery platforms, to sustain operational momentum, adding that challenges identified during the visit would be promptly addressed.

The visit featured detailed operational briefings, inspection of artillery platforms, discussions by senior officers, and other official engagements, underscoring the Nigerian Army’s resolve to maintain sustained pressure on terrorist groups in the North-East.