The Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has called for enhanced joint operations among the Armed Forces to consolidate gains in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the North East.
Vice Admiral Abbas made the call on Thursday, January 1, 2026, during an operational visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Addressing troops, the Naval Chief conveyed New Year greetings and commended their courage, resilience and sacrifices in defending the nation. He also relayed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s appreciation of the successes recorded by the Armed Forces in degrading terrorist activities in the theatre, urging personnel to sustain the momentum.
He emphasised the importance of inter-service cooperation, noting that jointness among the Armed Forces enhances operational effectiveness, ensures swift responses to emerging threats and strengthens national security. The CNS reaffirmed the Nigerian Navy’s commitment to sustaining a strong presence on the Lake Chad waterways to support peace, stability and economic recovery in the region.
Vice Admiral Abbas highlighted progress made in restoring socio-economic activities through the reopening of critical waterways, which has enabled fishermen, farmers, traders and transport operators to resume their livelihoods. He stressed that sustained naval operations and close coordination with other services were essential to securing these gains and supporting host communities.
The Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the CNS and presented a comprehensive briefing on ongoing operations. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the Nigerian Navy, particularly in the Lake Chad Islands, noting that maritime dominance has been critical to operational success and regional stability.
As part of the visit, the Naval Chief conducted an on-the-spot assessment of naval facilities at the Naval Base Annex along Monguno Road before proceeding to the Naval Base Lake Chad Command in Baga. He interacted with troops at Fish Dam, undertook a riverine patrol of the Lake Chad waterways to assess the level of clearance achieved, and later hosted a New Year luncheon for personnel.
Vice Admiral Abbas also paid a courtesy visit to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, where he expressed appreciation for the state government’s support and pledged continued collaboration to secure the waterways and promote socio-economic growth. Governor Zulum commended the Navy’s efforts and urged intensified operations to sustain peace in the region.
The visit was attended by senior military and naval officers, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division, component commanders and principal staff officers.
