BY FAIZA JIBRIN, NOVEMBER 28, 2025 | 03:51 PM
The Nigerian Army has called on soldiers serving in Operation Hadin Kai to take their family responsibilities seriously while fighting terrorism in the North‑East.
The appeal was the central theme of a sensitisation workshop on human rights and professional conduct held on Thursday at the Theatre Command Officers’ Mess in Maiduguri.
Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1, Brigadier General U.V. Unachukwu, said the Army has been receiving complaints of spouse and child abandonment by some personnel.
'Neglecting families can create long‑term security risks,' he warned.
He noted that children without proper care could become vulnerable to negative influences.
'An abandoned child, if not fortunate to find refuge, is a potential threat to national security. I am sure none of you wants your child to become a terrorist or bandit,' he added.
The GOC encouraged troops to remain committed to their families and ensure that spouses and children are properly cared for, even while they serve in the theatre of operations.
The workshop, organised by the department of civil‑military affairs, also addressed issues such as drug abuse, pilfering of arms and ammunition, and adherence to human‑rights standards during operations.
Brig‑Gen Unachukwu reminded soldiers that their activities must remain within the law and that the Army will back any soldier whose actions follow the rules of engagement.
'All that is required of you is to conduct operations in accordance with the law. The Army will back you as long as your actions are within our constitutionally mandated duties,' he said.
In an interview, chief of civil‑military affairs, Major General Musa Ndagi reiterated the importance of family welfare, noting that the Army is concerned about the number of reported cases involving neglected spouses and children.
While troops face hardship and long periods away from home, their families still depend on them for support and stability.
Maj. Gen. Ndagi added that the sensitisation was also necessary to prevent human‑rights violations, discourage drug abuse, and stop the illegal sale of weapons.
'We conduct our operations in line with the rules of engagement so that we do not give people reason to accuse us of human‑rights violations,' he said.
The Army is stepping up training and providing needed equipment to ensure troops remain professional while tackling terrorism.
'The Nigerian Army is making a lot of effort to stamp out terrorism through effective training and by equipping troops with the necessary combat enablers,' he added.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, respect for human rights, and the welfare of troops and their families.
The workshop concluded with a call for soldiers to stay disciplined, maintain high ethical standards, and remain focused on restoring peace to the North‑East.