By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief Security Adviser of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) in Nigeria, Mr. Senyo Kufe, has paid a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State.
According to a statement by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the visit was part of Mr. Kufe’s nationwide familiarization and operational assessment tour following his assumption of office in August 2025.
During the visit, Mr. Kufe described the North East as the “engine room” of Nigeria’s security operations, emphasizing its critical role in both national and humanitarian security. He lauded the Nigerian military for its professionalism and sustained support to UNDSS activities, noting that the visit provided him an opportunity to obtain firsthand insights into security realities in the region.
He further acknowledged the indispensable role of the military in ensuring the safety of UN staff in the North East, stating that “without the military, the UN cannot stand on its own in this region.”
Also speaking, the Area Security Adviser and Field Coordination Officer for the North East, Mr. Udit Mehta, appreciated the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his exemplary leadership, continued collaboration, and unwavering support to the UNDSS. He noted that the visit aimed to deepen existing partnerships and strengthen cooperation to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel operating in the area.
In his response, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abubakar, reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to supporting the UNDSS in achieving its mandate. He highlighted ongoing military operations, rescue missions, and stabilization efforts in the North East, underscoring the importance of strong civil-military relations and continuous partnership with the UN and other international actors.
Discussions during the meeting focused on enhancing collaboration in areas such as emergency preparedness, disaster response, information sharing, and security management. Both parties also agreed to expand joint training programmes and improve coordination mechanisms to enhance operational safety and risk mitigation.
The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs to Mr. Kufe, the signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.
Mr. Kufe was accompanied by UNDSS officials, including Security Analyst Mr. Christian Munteanu and Field Security Associate Major (Retired) Nuhu Mantana. Senior officers of Operation HADIN KAI, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Essen Efanga, Component Commanders, and Principal Staff Officers of the Headquarters, were also in attendance.
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