A media delegation from the United Kingdom-based Channel 4 News has conducted an assessment visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), to document the progress of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts.
The delegation, led by Senior Producer Freddie Gower, met with military leadership in Maiduguri to gain first-hand insights into the evolving security landscape of the North East.
International Spotlight on Security Success
Mr. Gower stated that the primary objective of the visit was to provide the international community with an accurate account of the successes recorded by the Nigerian Armed Forces. He noted that Channel 4 News focuses on global stories involving asymmetric warfare and human interest, making the developments in the North East a significant area of focus.
Following a series of operational briefings, Gower described the visit as “insightful and rewarding,” noting that the information provided offered a clear understanding of OPHK’s achievements and the remaining challenges in the region.
Commitment to Restoration and Stability
The Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, welcomed the delegation, viewing the visit as a sign of increasing international interest in Nigeria’s security operations. He reaffirmed the Command’s core mandate:
- Restoring Normalcy: Facilitating the return of socio-economic activities.
- Stabilization: Intensifying operations to clear remaining terrorist enclaves.
- Transparency: Maintaining professional and open engagement with the media.
- Food Security: Implementation of farm patrols to protect local farmers.
- Health Services: Providing security for humanitarian agencies to deliver vaccinations, nutrition services, and general medical care.
- Vulnerable Protection: Ensuring the safety of the region’s most at-risk populations.
