(SINL NIGERIA) The Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has conducted seamless change of command ceremonies across Sectors 1, 2, and 3 of the Theatre, reinforcing command continuity, operational stability, and sustained momentum in ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the North East.
In Sector 1, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, formally handed over command to Brigadier General Solomon Diwa during a ceremony held at Headquarters 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
The event marked the end of Brigadier General Unachukwu’s tenure, which witnessed notable operational progress and consolidation of gains within the Division’s Area of Responsibility.
The was contained in a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.
In his valedictory remarks, Brigadier General Unachukwu described his tenure as both challenging and rewarding, stating that he was handing over the Division in a more stable condition.
He commended brigade and field commanders for their dedication and urged troops to sustain the operational momentum, stressing that the transition in leadership should not affect commitment to duty.
He also appreciated officers and soldiers for their support and expressed confidence in the ability of his successor to build on existing achievements.
In his assumption of command remarks, Brigadier General Diwa pledged to sustain and improve on the successes recorded by his predecessor.
He assured troops of his commitment to operational effectiveness, innovation, and continuous improvement in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy aimed at building a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of joint and multi-agency operations.
Similarly, in Sector 2, Damaturu, Yobe State, Brigadier General Beyidi Martins formally handed over command to Brigadier General Edet Effiong during a ceremony conducted in accordance with military traditions and protocols.
Brigadier General Martins, in his farewell remarks, thanked officers and soldiers for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication throughout his tenure, which he said was marked by operational successes, improved troop morale, and strengthened civil-military cooperation within the sector’s Area of Responsibility.
He urged personnel to extend maximum support and cooperation to the incoming commander to ensure continuity in ongoing operations.
Taking over command, Brigadier General Effiong commended his predecessor for exemplary leadership and pledged to consolidate on the achievements recorded while intensifying ongoing operations across the sector.
He emphasized professionalism, discipline, adaptability, and stronger collaboration with local communities as critical factors in addressing evolving security challenges.
In Sector 3, Monguno, Borno State, Brigadier General Shehu Ahmed formally assumed command from Major General Suleiman Tilawan in a colourful ceremony steeped in military tradition, marking the transition of command within the Multinational Joint Task Force component of the sector.
The outgoing commander expressed appreciation to officers and soldiers for their loyalty, sacrifices, and unwavering support, attributing operational successes in the sector to teamwork and collective commitment.
He however urged troops to remain steadfast and support the incoming commander to sustain operational momentum.
In his remarks, Brigadier General Ahmed paid tribute to his predecessor and pledged to build on the solid foundation already established, with renewed emphasis on professionalism, discipline, operational efficiency, and troops’ welfare.
He assured that under his leadership, the sector would sustain offensive operations and strengthen efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability in the North East.
Highlights of the ceremonies included the signing of handing-over notes, symbolic transfer of command flags, presentation of souvenirs, operational briefings, visits to key locations and stakeholders, as well as group photographs.
The Theatre Command of Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to sustaining operational tempo across all sectors, denying terrorist elements freedom of action, and ensuring the safety and security of citizens across the North East.
