UK-Based Media Praises Operational Achievements of Operation HADIN KAI
A United Kingdom–based media delegation from Channel 4 News has visited the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State, to assess Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
The delegation was led by Channel 4 News Senior Producer and Team Leader, Mr. Freddie Gower, who said the visit was aimed at showcasing to the international community the significant successes recorded by the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism.
Gower explained that Channel 4 News, headquartered in London, reaches a global audience and focuses on major human-interest stories, terrorism, and asymmetric warfare. He noted that the visit would allow his team to gain first-hand insights through engagements with military commanders and affected local communities.
He expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander for the warm reception accorded the delegation, describing the visit as both insightful and rewarding. Gower commended the detailed operational briefings received, saying they provided a comprehensive understanding of OPHK’s achievements, challenges, and progress in counter-terrorism operations.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, reaffirmed the Command’s mandate of restoring normalcy across the North East to enable socio-economic activities to thrive, while sustaining and intensifying stabilisation operations throughout the theatre.
Major General Abubakar described the visit as a reflection of growing international interest in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign and assured the delegation of OPHK’s full cooperation. He reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and responsible engagement with the media.
The Theatre Commander disclosed that OPHK has prioritised the protection of vulnerable communities through robust non-kinetic operations, which have facilitated the return of thousands of internally displaced persons to their ancestral homes. He added that improved security has enabled farm patrols to boost food security and ensured sustained protection for humanitarian agencies delivering medical care, nutrition services, vaccinations, and immunisation programmes.
He further stated that the security situation in the North East has been largely contained, with ongoing operations significantly degrading terrorist enclaves. According to him, OPHK continues to leverage cooperation with international partners, including the British Military Advisory and Training Team.
The visit featured detailed operational briefings, the signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
