The Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai, under the leadership of its Theatre Commander Major General Waidi Shaibu, has restored relative peace to the North East region through various kinetic and non-kinetic operations.
The Coordinator of the Joint Intelligence Fusion Centre, Colonel Wa Adegoke, stated this while addressing the media team on a tour to assess the activities of troops from the Defence Headquarters, Abuja, at the Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri.
He presented an overview of the activities of the Joint Task Force (Northeast) Operation HADIN ΚΑΙ, shedding light on the progress made in combating terrorism in the region.
According to him, since the emergence of the Jama’tu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (BHTs) in the mid-2000s, particularly under the leadership of Abubakar Shekau in 2009, the North East region of Nigeria has been plagued by violent extremism.
The escalation of terrorist activities prompted the deployment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to restore peace and order.
He explained that over the past 13 years, various military operations have been undertaken, leading to the current designation of the Joint Task Force (Northeast) Operation HADIN ΚΑΙ.
Col. Adegoke noted that the efforts of the Joint Task Force have significantly degraded the insurgents and restored relative peace and security across the theatre, facilitating the resumption of socio-economic activities.
He stated that the Task Force has collaborated with humanitarian agencies, both domestic and international, to address the needs of affected populations.
He further highlighted these strides to include the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and the provision of essential services such as healthcare and education.
Additionally, in its military operations, the Task Force has prioritized non-kinetic activities aimed at winning the hearts and minds of the populace, which include rehabilitation and reintegration programs for surrendered terrorists, community engagement initiatives, and quick impact projects to improve living conditions.
Col. Adegoke also pointed out that notable rescue efforts include the successful recovery of abducted individuals, including the Chibok schoolgirls, noting that to date, 184 out of the 276 abducted girls have either escaped, been released, or rescued by the troops.
He stressed that the Task Force has witnessed a significant number of terrorists surrendering, totaling 109,423 individuals, including active fighters, women, and children, adding that the surrender has been facilitated by comprehensive disarmament, deradicalization, rehabilitation, and reintegration programs.
He reiterated that the Task Force maintains a close relationship with non-governmental organizations, providing armed escorts to ensure the safety of humanitarian workers and facilitating their activities in the region.
The colonel added that the Joint Task Force (Northeast) Operation HADIN ΚΑΙ remains committed to its mandate of defeating terrorism and restoring law and order in the North East region of Nigeria.
With continued collaboration and concerted efforts, the Task Force aims to create an environment conducive to economic growth and development in the region.
LV