From Ndahi Salihu, Maiduguri
The Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA), Major General Philip Ilodibia, yesterday conducted an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The visit formed part of ongoing efforts to strengthen joint military operations in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign and to end terrorism in the region.
During the visit, the CDSA received comprehensive operational briefings on the activities and progress of OPHK.
He stated that the purpose of the visit was to obtain first-hand insight into the technical operations of the recently established Modular Earth Observation Outpost (MEOO) Team deployed to OPHK, as well as to deepen collaboration between the Defence Space Administration (DSA) and the Theatre Command.
Major General Ilodibia noted that “the visit provided a valuable opportunity to assess existing capabilities and identify areas where the DSA can enhance intelligence support, information flow, and overall efficiency of the Military Command and Control Centre within the theatre of operations”.
He reaffirmed the DSA’s commitment to providing additional technical support, addressing identified gaps, and escalating operational challenges to the military high command for prompt intervention.
The CDSA commended the Theatre for the successes recorded in sustaining stabilization operations, particularly in facilitating the resettlement of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) across the theatre. He also extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of the DSA to the families of personnel who lost their lives in the course of operations, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
In his remarks, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar expressed appreciation to the CDSA for the visit, noting that it would significantly enhance operational effectiveness within the theatre. He expressed optimism that the assessment would lead to actionable recommendations that will further strengthen ongoing operations.
General Abubakar praised the technical contributions of the DSA, highlighting that the successful integration of the MEOO has contributed to recent operational gains. He reiterated OPHK’s commitment to sustaining operational tempo to achieve lasting peace and stability in the North East.
He also assured that the command would continue to prioritize target accuracy to mitigate civilian harm and ensure efficient resource utilization.
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 OPHK, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu; Principal Staff Officer to the CDSA, Colonel Bala Musa; among others.
Highlights of the visit included the inspection of the Quarter Guard, Military Command and Control Centre, operational briefings, an interactive session with personnel, presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph.
