DHQ Leads Media Tour of North East, Reviews Transition to Peace and Stability
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has concluded a high-level media assessment tour of the North East theatre of operations as part of efforts to evaluate the sustainability of peace, security and post-conflict recovery in areas reclaimed from insurgency.
The three-day tour, coordinated by the Directorate of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), granted senior defence correspondents and media professionals independent access to the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK). The initiative was designed to enable firsthand appraisal of ongoing military operations, civil-military cooperation and stabilisation efforts across the region.
Receiving the delegation at the Theatre Headquarters in Maiduguri, the Theatre Commander, Abdulsalam Abubakar, said the Armed Forces were increasingly adopting a comprehensive security approach that combines sustained kinetic operations with robust non-kinetic interventions.
He explained that while pressure on terrorist groups remains relentless, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, has prioritised people-centred strategies aimed at winning hearts and minds in conflict-affected communities.
“The CDS and the Service Chiefs remain committed to people-focused operations,” the Theatre Commander said. “Information is a critical tool in asymmetric warfare, and we encourage the media to sustain credible, balanced reporting that strengthens public trust and national confidence.”
Read Also:
During a detailed operational briefing, Major General Abubakar outlined progress recorded across several recovered communities, noting a gradual return of socio-economic life. He cited the resumption of farming and local trade, improved security arrangements for vulnerable populations, and safer operating conditions for humanitarian agencies and international non-governmental organisations.
He added that these developments reflect the Armed Forces’ broader objective of ensuring that military successes translate into lasting peace and improved living conditions for civilians.
Speaking on behalf of the media delegation, Ibrahim Bukar, commended the leadership of the Defence Headquarters for promoting transparency and constructive engagement with the media. He described strategic communication as a “force multiplier” in modern conflict management.
“National security is a collective responsibility,” he said. “The resilience and sacrifices of the troops of Operation HADIN KAI are evident, and responsible media engagement is essential to helping the public appreciate the scale and impact of these efforts.”
As part of the tour, the delegation visited the Joint Investigation Centre to observe procedures for the processing and rehabilitation of de-radicalised individuals. They also assessed operational readiness and welfare conditions at Forward Operating Bases in Tunkushe and Molai, where frontline troops are deployed.
The tour concluded with the presentation of souvenirs and a group photograph, symbolising strengthened collaboration and accountability between the Nigerian Armed Forces and the media, as both institutions continue to play complementary roles in Nigeria’s journey towards enduring peace and stability in the North East.
By PRNigeria
