“We Look Up To You For Final Defeat Of Terrorism” — COAS Rallies Troops In Maiduguri

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has told troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, that the nation looks up to them for the final defeat of terrorism, charging them to sustain the offensive against Boko Haram and ISWAP.

General Shaibu gave the charge on Saturday, 17 October 2026, while addressing officers and soldiers at the 212 Tank Battalion Parade Ground, Maiduguri, Borno State, during an operational assessment visit to the North East theatre.

“You must remain disciplined, resilient and focused. The nation is proud of you and looks up to you for the final defeat of terrorism,” the COAS charged.

The Army Chief said the troops must sustain the operational momentum against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, while maintaining the highest standards of discipline, resilience and professionalism in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

He commended the troops for their courage, sacrifices and sustained offensive operations, which have significantly degraded terrorist capabilities and contributed to improved security across the region. He urged them to consolidate the gains recorded, maintain operational vigilance and intensify efforts towards the decisive defeat of terrorism.

Emphasizing that discipline, combat readiness and unwavering commitment remain critical to operational success, Lieutenant General Shaibu reminded the troops of the nation’s confidence in their ability to restore lasting peace and stability to the North East.

Reaffirming his Soldier First philosophy, General Shaibu assured personnel of sustained attention to their welfare, including the provision of modern combat equipment, improved accommodation, adequate medical support and timely troop rotation to enhance morale and operational effectiveness.

Earlier, the Army Chief received a comprehensive operational briefing from the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose and Sector Commanders. The briefing highlighted the prevailing security situation, operational successes, emerging challenges and strategies for sustaining pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre.

In a demonstration of his commitment to personnel welfare, Lieutenant General Shaibu also interacted with wounded soldiers, commending their courage and sacrifices in defence of the nation. He assured them of continued medical attention, rehabilitation and institutional support.

The visit underscores the COAS’ commitment to frontline leadership, sustained operational readiness and improved troop welfare as the Nigerian Army intensifies efforts to eliminate terrorist threats and consolidate peace and security in the North East.

Colonel Appolonia Anele
Acting Director Army Public Relations
17 October 2026