The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu, has directed troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) to prepare for a critical phase in Nigeria’s fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the North-east.

Addressing soldiers at the OPHK headquarters in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Friday, Shaibu described the upcoming operations as decisive, emphasizing that “failure is not an option.”

“You have been training to defeat the terrorists disturbing the North-east. This time, you are going to do it differently. All combat enablers have been provided. New platforms have been introduced, all to ensure your success,” he stated.

Shaibu noted that the offensive would be led by a new generation of soldiers, urging them to build upon and surpass the achievements of their predecessors who served both nationally and internationally.

Intelligence reports indicate that Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, though weakened, are regrouping around the Lake Chad axis and exploiting porous borders, underscoring the urgency of the operation. Military experts warn that any delay could undermine recent successes amid rising regional instability and intensified extremist propaganda.

To support the troops, seasoned officers have been deployed to the theatre, while soldiers now have access to modern equipment and new operational technologies. Shaibu also reassured personnel that their welfare remains a priority, highlighting improvements in rations, allowances, medical care, housing, and education for their children.

During his two-day operational visit, the COAS inspected injured soldiers at the 7 Division Medical Specialists Hospital, reviewed repaired armoured vehicles and the Nigerian Army Aviation/TB2 Armed Drone Hangar, inaugurated new troop transit accommodation, and paid a courtesy visit to the Shehu of Borno.