Optn Hadin Kai: COAS solicits Borno monarchs support to fight Northeast insurgency

Chief of Army Staff (COAS),
Maj Gen Faruk Yahaya called for improved support from traditional leaders in ongoing security operations to end Boko Haram insurgency and terrorism in the Northeast.

Faruk, during a courtesy call on the Shehu of Borno, HRH Alhaji Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-kanemi, CFR and Members of Borno Emirate weekend in his palace in Maiduguri, Bornu state.

The was disclosed by Col Ado Isa, Deputy Director Public Relations, 7 Division Nigerian Army/Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI on Saturday.

According to Ado, “The COAS who had arrived the state earlier in the day on operational visit to the Theatre was pleased to be at the Shehu’s palace with Principal Staff Officers from the Army Headquarters to pay respects and homage to the revered traditional ruler.

“He appreciated the support of the royal father and the entire Emirate even while he was in the State as the Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI before his appointment as the 22nd COAS.

“He noted the support of the royal father and the Emirate has led to some of the successes recorded in the operations against the terrorists, soliciting more support.”

The Shehu of Borno commended the military for the gradual return of peace to the State and Northeast, noting that 17 of the 27 local government areas previously occupied by Boko Haram Terrorists some years ago have been recaptured and civil authority restored.

He asked the COAS not to be deterred and pledged the support of the Emirate to the Army leadership and Military generally.

On the entourage of the COAS on the visit were Chief of Operations (Army) Maj Gen Ibrahim Yusuf, other Principal Staff Officers at the Army Headquarters, Theatre Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Maj Gen Christopher Musa, Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division and Commander, Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI, Brig Gen Abdulwahab Eyitayo among others.