In a renewed push to tighten the screws on terrorism in Nigeria’s North-East, the Commander Corps of Artillery, Major General John Adeyemo, has paid an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI, pledging sustained support to boost battlefield effectiveness.
The visit, carried out on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, underscores the Nigerian Army’s resolve to keep pressure on insurgent groups and consolidate recent security gains across the theatre. It also aligns with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, which prioritises operational efficiency, accountability, and troop welfare.
Speaking during the engagement, Major General Adeyemo said the visit was designed to “walk the talk” by conducting a hands-on evaluation of artillery resources deployed in support of Operation HADIN KAI. He explained that the tour would allow for on-the-spot assessment of artillery platforms, direct engagement with field commanders, and practical solutions to operational challenges.
“Artillery remains a critical pillar of coordinated firepower,” the Artillery Chief declared, stressing that effective use of platforms is central to sustaining momentum against terrorists. He conveyed the COAS’ season’s greetings to officers and troops, while reaffirming the unwavering commitment of the Corps of Artillery to the success of operations in the North-East.
Major General Adeyemo commended the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for what he described as a professional, innovative and results-driven approach to security challenges. He applauded the strong synergy among formations in the theatre and hailed OPHK troops as “warriors and gallant soldiers,” assuring them of continued artillery backing.
In his response, the Theatre Commander thanked the Artillery Chief for undertaking the visit despite the festive season, describing artillery as an indispensable element of the Nigerian Army’s combat power. He noted that its impact on ongoing counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations “cannot be overemphasised.”
Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to optimally deploying all combat enablers, especially artillery assets, to guarantee sustained operational effectiveness. He expressed confidence that issues identified during the assessment would receive prompt attention under Major General Adeyemo’s leadership.
The visit featured detailed operational briefings on achievements and challenges in the theatre, which the Artillery Chief described as comprehensive and insightful. He assured commanders that deliberate steps would be taken to address identified gaps and further strengthen coordination and mission success.
As part of the tour, Major General Adeyemo is expected to inspect selected artillery platforms and commission key projects within the theatre. Highlights of the visit included high-level deliberations by senior officers, signing of the visitors’ register, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph—symbolising unity of purpose in the fight to stabilise the North-East.
