BY MUSA IDRIS UMAR, MAY 21, 2025 | 05:46 AM
The Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brig. Gen. Ugochukwu Unachukwu, paid a visit to troops of the 50 Task Force Battalion in New Marte.
The visit aimed to boost the morale of the soldiers following recent operational setbacks and inject renewed vigor into their efforts to combat Boko Haram and Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
During his visit, Brig. Gen. Unachukwu assessed the battalion's facilities and combat readiness, reiterating his commitment to the welfare of the troops under his command.
He commended their dedication to the ongoing fight against terrorism and underscored the importance of maintaining professionalism and discipline in the face of adversity.
Addressing the assembled troops, the GOC urged them to remain steadfast, focused, and committed to their duties, assuring them that their collective efforts would ultimately lead to the decisive defeat of the terrorist groups. His words were met with palpable enthusiasm, as the soldiers reaffirmed their resolve to protect their locations and the residents of Marte.
In a subsequent durbar with the troops, the GOC listened attentively to their concerns, providing guidance on overcoming the challenges inherent in their demanding roles.
He charged them to 'deal ruthlessly' with terrorists, reinforcing the military's firm stance against insurgency.
He also engaged with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), local hunters, and traditional leaders, emphasizing the crucial need for synergy and intelligence sharing to effectively combat terrorism. The general commended these stakeholders for their invaluable contributions and urged them to continue providing vital information that would aid military operations.
He assured the troops of comprehensive logistical support to enhance their operational effectiveness, in line with the Chief of Army Staff's 'Soldier First Concept'.
He emphasized that all necessary provisions would be made available to ensure their success in land battles, a gesture that served as a significant morale booster.
The visit culminated in tangible demonstrations of support, including the donation of military kits such as camouflage uniforms and combat boots. In a symbolic display of camaraderie and shared determination, the GOC led the troops in push-up exercises, leaving them with renewed vigor, momentum, and heightened motivation to confront the challenges ahead.