The chief of naval staff, Idi Abbas, has urged troops of the Armed Forces deployed to the North-East to sustain commitment to counter-terrorism operations and security of Lake Chad waterways.

This was disclosed in a statement on Friday.

Mr Abbas gave the charge during his maiden operational visit to the North-East theatre of Operation Hadin Kai, where he celebrated the New Year with the troops on Thursday.

The naval chief addressed the troops, commended their dedication, and reassured them that operational gaps and logistical challenges would be addressed promptly to strengthen mission effectiveness.

Mr Abbas described the troops’ deployment to the country’s extreme north-eastern border as “demanding but vital to national security”.

Mr Abbas emphasised the need for enhanced waterway security and economic restoration, while taking a boat ride on the recently cleared Lake Chad to assess progress in reopening navigable routes.

He also restated that “securing the Lake Chad region is critical to denying terrorists access to transport routes, disrupting supply lines, and safeguarding local livelihoods”.

He shared a New Year’s meal with officers and men of NBLC and 196 Amphibious Battalion.

The naval chief reaffirmed the navy’s commitment to coordinated operations with sister services and security agencies to maintain pressure on terrorist networks in the North-East.

During an operational tour of the headquarters of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in Maiduguri, Mr Abbas was briefed by the theatre commander, A.E. Abubakar, on ongoing challenges in the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP.

The briefing highlighted the success of joint operations by land, maritime, and air components in degrading terrorist capabilities, while acknowledging persistent threats of insurgent attacks on communities and military positions.

The visit highlighted operational achievements, ongoing security challenges, and strategic priorities, reinforcing the navy’s vision for a mobile, agile, and professional force dedicated to advancing national defence objectives and securing the nation’s maritime and border domains.

(NAN)