By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA), Major General Philip Ilodibia, has undertaken an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of efforts to strengthen joint military operations in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign.
The visit, which took place on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, provided the CDSA with an opportunity to receive comprehensive briefings on the activities and progress of Operation HADIN KAI.
In a statement issued by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Major General Ilodibia explained that the visit was aimed at gaining first-hand insight into the technical operations of the recently established Modular Earth Observation Outpost (MEOO) Team deployed to the theatre. He added that it would also deepen collaboration between the Defence Space Administration and the Theatre Command.
The CDSA noted that the assessment enabled him to evaluate existing operational capabilities and identify areas where the Defence Space Administration could enhance intelligence support, improve information flow, and boost the efficiency of the Military Command and Control Centre within the theatre.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Space Administration to providing additional technical support, addressing identified operational gaps, and escalating critical challenges to the military high command for prompt intervention.
Major General Ilodibia commended troops for successes recorded in sustaining stabilisation operations, particularly in facilitating the resettlement of internally displaced persons across the North East. He also extended condolences on behalf of the Defence Space Administration to families of personnel who lost their lives in the course of operations.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander appreciated the CDSA for the visit, noting that it would significantly enhance operational effectiveness. He expressed optimism that the assessment would produce actionable recommendations to further strengthen ongoing operations.
Also speaking, Major General Abubakar praised the technical contributions of the Defence Space Administration, noting that the successful integration of the Modular Earth Observation Outpost had contributed to recent operational gains. He reiterated the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to sustaining operational tempo in order to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region, while prioritising target accuracy to minimise civilian harm and ensure efficient use of resources.
The visit was attended by senior military officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa; the Director, Earth Observation, Air Vice Marshal Ayodele Hanidu; the Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu; and the Principal Staff Officer to the CDSA, Colonel Bala Musa, among others.
Highlights of the visit included the inspection of the Quarter Guard, a tour of the Military Command and Control Centre, operational briefings, an interactive session with personnel, presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph.
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