A Solemn and Glorious Commendation To The Troops Of Operation Hadin Kai by Brig. Gen SK Usman, Former Army Spokesperson

A Solemn and Glorious Commendation To The Troops Of Operation Hadin Kai by Brig. Gen SK Usman, Former Army Spokesperson

It is with great pride and heartfelt admiration that I convey my most profound gratitude and congratulations to the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), General Officers Commanding/Sector Commanders, Brigade Commanders, Component Commanders, Commanding Officers, and every gallant officer and courageous soldier of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, all other security forces deployed in the North East, for their efforts and sacrifices in the counterinsuregncy operations and most importantly, the decisive victory recorded in thwarting and crushing multiple Boko Haram terrorists’ attacks across the theatre, specifically in Dikwa, Mafa, Gajibo and Katarko recently.

Indeed, the terrorists coordinated and intended assaults on troops’ positions were met with decisive and offensive response by ground troops supported by air platforms of the Air Component Command of OPHK who used their overwhelming and lethal force to neutralize a sizable number of the terrorists and the recovery of assorted arms, ammunitions and equipment.

The extraordinary and unprecedented feat and triumph is a glowing reflection of the exemplary and visionary leadership of the Theatre Commander and all the echelons of command and the supporting elements. Your courage, foresight and total commitment, exemplified by leading from the most perilous frontlines, have undoubtedly inspired the troops with unshakeable confidence, boosted their morale and reignited their fighting spirit that rekindled the resolve to take the battle directly to the terrorists.

I am personally filled with immense pride and gratitude when I saw the shattered images of the Boko Haram casualties and what you recovered from them. I therefore commend the gallant troops for their resilience, professionalism and heroic bravery in the face of grave danger. Your selfless sacrifices, patriotism and courage have once again proven that Nigeria’s strength lies in the valour of our gallant military and security forces. You have shown, through these efforts, your discipline and unity of purpose, that the spirit of the Nigerian soldier is indomitable. I urge you to sustain this victorious momentum, remain vigilant and continue to dominate the battle space until enduring peace and stability are permanently restored to the North East and beyond.

This impressive renewed vigour has also remarkably strengthened the operational synergy between the ground forces and the awe-inspiring air component, culminating in sweeping, coordinated and resounding victories on every front. It also give us hope and confidence in your ability to succeed in the counterinsurgncy efforts and the fight against banditry and kidnappings in this country.

I also wish to empathise deeply with and extend my heartfelt condolences to the entire Theatre Command, formations and units, over the loss of some of our precious and gallant colleagues who paid the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. Their bravery and devotion to our beloved country shall never be forgotten. They have given their all so that others may live in peace and freedom. I pray for the peaceful repose of their noble souls and for divine comfort to their families and comrades-in-arms. To those wounded in action, I wish you a swift and complete recovery. Your sacrifices and those of your fallen comrades must never be in vain. Let these sacred sacrifices rekindle an even stronger commitment to the fight against insurgency, banditry and kidnappings until these evils are completely defeated.

To the various host communities where troops are deployed, I appeal to you from the depths of my heart to have total confidence in the capability of our troops to protect and defend you. These gallant sons and daughters of our great nation are fighting not merely for land, but for our safety, honour and way of life. Support them wholeheartedly with information, encouragement, cooperation and prayers. Your steadfast backing is not just appreciated, it is essential. Together, we can build a lasting peace founded on mutual trust and shared commitment to our collective survival and progress in our country.

In the same spirit, I call upon the Government at all levels, Federal, State and Local, to continue to support our Armed Forces. This includes ensuring superior equipment, adequate logistics, improved welfare and all critical enablers required to maintain this momentum and consolidate the victories recorded. The sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform demand nothing less than the full weight of the nation’s commitment and gratitude.

Our gallant troops, please be assured of the unceasing support, fervent prayers and solidarity of all patriotic and well-meaning Nigerians, myself included. Your latest triumph is more than a military victory; it is a national inspiration, a symbol of our collective resilience which bears eloquent testimony to the enduring spirit of Nigeria.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria deserve the highest national honour for their steadfast dedication, courage, patriotism and selfless service in defending our sovereignty and protecting our people from all threats, as exemplified by this recent feat and several others in the past. These troops also deserve recognitions and citations, among other honours, as a morale booster. Magnificently well done, gallant heroes, onward to ultimate and total victory for our cherished nation!

Brigadier General Sani Kukasheka Usman (rtd) mni fnipr
Abuja
24 October 2025