By Bavoriat Clara
A United Kingdom–based media delegation from Channel 4 News has visited the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of efforts to highlight Nigeria’s counter-terrorism campaign to the international community.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba.The delegation, led by Channel 4 News Senior Producer and Team Leader, Mr Freddie Gower, said the visit was aimed at showcasing the significant successes recorded by the Nigerian Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism. Mr Gower explained that Channel 4 News, headquartered in London, serves a global audience and places strong emphasis on major human-interest stories, terrorism, and asymmetric warfare.
He noted that the visit would provide the team with first-hand insights into counter-terrorism operations through engagements with field commanders and interactions with local communities. Mr Gower expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander for the warm reception accorded the delegation, describing the visit as insightful and rewarding. He commended the comprehensive operational briefings, which he said offered a clear understanding of OPHK’s achievements, challenges, and ongoing progress.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, reaffirmed the Command’s mandate of restoring lasting peace and normalcy across the North East to enable socio-economic activities to thrive. He emphasised that OPHK remains committed to sustaining and intensifying stabilisation operations throughout the theatre.
Major General Abubakar described the visit as evidence of growing international interest in Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts and assured the delegation of the Command’s full cooperation in facilitating their assignment. He reiterated OPHK’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and responsible engagement with the media.
The Theatre Commander further disclosed that OPHK has prioritised the protection of vulnerable communities through robust non-kinetic operations, which have enabled thousands of internally displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes. He added that improved security has supported farm patrols to enhance food security and ensured sustained protection for humanitarian agencies delivering medical care, nutrition services, vaccinations, and immunisation programmes.
He stated that the security situation in the North East has been largely contained, with ongoing operations significantly degrading terrorist enclaves. According to him, OPHK continues to leverage cooperation with international partners, including the British Military Advisory and Training Team, to enhance operational effectiveness.
The visit featured detailed operational briefings, signing of the visitors’ register, presentation of souvenirs, and a group photograph.
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