Troops under Operation Hadin Kai have intensified counter-terrorism efforts across Borno State, adopting renewed strategies to curb recent activities of Boko Haram insurgents and protect farming communities.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), visits to Forward Operation Bases (FOBs) in Tungushe (Konduga LGA) and Molai (Jere LGA) revealed heightened surveillance, aggressive patrols, and ambush operations, signaling a more proactive military posture.
Speaking during a fact-finding mission by Defence Correspondents, Lt.-Col. Christian Okupe, Commanding Officer of 212 Battalion, said the troops were committed to ensuring locals are safe to carry out their daily and farming activities.
“Our primary assignment is to provide security that guarantees freedom and peace of mind for the people,” Okupe said. “We urge the media and the public to support the military's efforts and refrain from demoralizing comments online, which often stem from misinformation.”
Similarly, Capt. Kabiru Musa, another commanding officer at FOB Tungushe, emphasized the military’s role in escorting farmers and providing them with protective cover during daylight hours.
“We are here to ensure civilians can live and farm without fear. The people have also been cooperative, especially in sharing credible intelligence,” Musa noted.
Local residents have expressed appreciation for the military presence. Mallam Baba Adamu, a head teacher representing the community, commended the troops for their dedication but called on the government to complement their efforts by providing potable water and addressing herdsmen-related crop disturbances.
At FOB Molai, Maj. Darush Yusuf, the Acting Commanding Officer, highlighted recent successes, including a deadly ambush at Kumala, a known crossing point to the Sambisa forest.
“We neutralized the terrorists and recovered six 105mm howitzer bombs. Our operations here are 'do or die'. Thankfully, we have full logistical support, and morale is high among the troops,” Yusuf declared.
In a show of civilian-military synergy, Ali Gonilawan, Permanent Secretary of the Borno State Ministry of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Resettlement, acknowledged the military’s critical role in enabling safe return and resettlement of displaced persons.
“With the military’s support, we are currently constructing 500 housing units in Dalwa for returnees. Their security presence allows us to rebuild and restore lives,” Gonilawan said.
He added that collaboration among the military, local vigilantes, and other security agencies is vital for sustaining the resettlement gains and restoring lasting peace in the region.
