The Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai, OPHK, said it has successfully conducted seamless change of command ceremonies across Sectors 1, 2, and 3 of the Theatre, reinforcing command continuity, operational stability, and sustained momentum in ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the North East region.

A statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation, Hadin Kai, said that in Sector 1, the General Officer Commanding 7 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, formally handed over command to Brigadier General Solomon Diwa, during a ceremony held at Headquarters 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.

“The event marked the end of a successful tenure characterised by operational progress and consolidation of gains within the Division’s Area of Responsibility,” the statement added.

In his valedictory remarks, Brigadier General Unachukwu described his tenure as challenging yet rewarding, noting that the Division is being handed over in a more stable condition.

He commended brigade and field commanders for their dedication and urged personnel to sustain operational momentum, emphasising that command transition must not affect the commitment to duty.

He further appreciated the support of all personnel and reaffirmed confidence in his successor.

In his assumption of command remarks, Brigadier General Diwa pledged to sustain and improve on the achievements recorded by his predecessor.

He assured troops of his commitment to operational effectiveness, innovation, and continuous improvement in line with the Chief of Army Staff’s Command Philosophy aimed at building a well-motivated and combat-ready force capable of joint and multi-agency operations.

In Sector 2, located in Damaturu, Yobe State, Brigadier General Beyidi Martins formally handed over command to Brigadier General Edet Effiong in a ceremony conducted in line with established military traditions and protocols.

In his valedictory remarks, Brigadier General Martins expressed appreciation to officers and soldiers for their dedication, resilience, and professionalism throughout his tenure, which he noted was marked by notable operational achievements, improved troop morale, and strengthened civil-military cooperation within the Area of Responsibility.

He urged personnel to extend maximum cooperation to his successor to sustain ongoing operational gains.  In his assumption remarks, Brigadier General Effiong commended his predecessor for his exemplary leadership and pledged to consolidate on the achievements recorded while intensifying ongoing operations across the sector.

He emphasized professionalism, discipline, adaptability, and enhanced collaboration with local communities as key imperatives for addressing evolving security challenges.

Similarly, in Sector 3, located in Monguno, Borno State, Brigadier General Shehu Ahmed formally assumed command from Major General Suleiman Tilawan in a colourful and dignified ceremony steeped in military tradition, which also marked the transition of command within the Multinational Joint Task Force, MNJTF, component of the sector.

The outgoing commander expressed deep appreciation to officers and soldiers for their unwavering support, loyalty, and sacrifices, attributing the operational successes recorded in the sector to teamwork and collective commitment. He urged troops to remain steadfast and fully support the incoming commander to sustain operational momentum.

Brigadier General Ahmed, in his remarks, paid glowing tribute to his predecessor and pledged to build on the solid foundation already established, with renewed emphasis on professionalism, discipline, operational efficiency, and troops’ welfare.

He assured that under his leadership, the sector would sustain offensive operations and strengthen efforts aimed at restoring lasting peace and stability.

Highlights of the various ceremonies included the signing of handing-over notes, symbolic transfer of command flags, presentation of souvenirs, operational briefings, visits to key locations, critical stakeholders and group photographs.