Ajose Takes Over Operation Hadin Kai, Pledges to Consolidate Counter-Terrorism Gains
Ali Mohammed Zanna, Maiduguri
Major General Ajose has assumed command of the North-East Theatre of Operations, Operation Hadin Kai, pledging to sustain and consolidate the gains recorded in the fight against terrorism.
Ajose took over from Major General Abubakar during a formal handing and taking-over ceremony in Borno State.
In his maiden address after assuming command, the new Theatre Commander said the mandate of the Theatre remained unchanged: to restore normalcy in the North-East and create an enabling environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.
He pledged to build on the achievements of his predecessor and strengthen ongoing efforts to defeat terrorism in the region.
Ajose, who previously served as Commander 5 Brigade and Chief of Staff, Force Special Forces Command, in Borno State, said his knowledge of the terrain and operational experience would be brought to bear in the fight against terrorism.
He also assured the Borno State Government, humanitarian partners, Hybrid Forces, Civilian Joint Task Force, the media and other stakeholders of continued cooperation in the discharge of the Theatre’s mandate.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tar commended Major General Abubakar for his leadership and contributions to the fight against terrorism.
Tar said improvements in intelligence gathering, civil-military relations, personnel welfare and the establishment of a command-and-control centre linking units and formations across the Theatre had contributed to the successes recorded.
He also commended the outgoing commander’s response to actionable intelligence, describing the remaining terrorists as a residue of what was once a formidable adversary.
In his remarks, Abubakar attributed the achievements recorded under his command to the courage and sacrifices of troops, as well as the support of the Federal Government, Borno State Government, humanitarian partners, security agencies and the media.
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shuaibu, and other stakeholders for their support.
Abubakar charged troops to remain dedicated and professional in the discharge of their duties.
He also urged them to extend the same cooperation and loyalty accorded him to the new Theatre Commander.
The ceremony featured the signing of handing and taking-over notes, an address to troops, quarter guard, lowering and hoisting of the Regimental Colours, presentation of awards and souvenirs, and a group photograph.
Earlier, Abubakar visited the Maimalari Cantonment Military Cemetery, where he laid a wreath in honour of fallen military personnel.
The former commander’s visit paid tribute to military personnel who lost their lives in the service of the nation.
The change of command marks the beginning of Ajose’s tenure as Theatre Commander, with the new leadership expected to sustain ongoing counter-terrorism operations and strengthen collaboration with stakeholders across the North-East.
