As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Wadi Shaibu, on Saturday travelled to the North-East frontline to deliver a message of encouragement to troops battling insurgency, reminding them that the country’s peace and successful elections depend largely on their dedication.
Standing before soldiers at the 21 Brigade Battalion Parade Ground in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Army Chief praised their sacrifices and urged them not to lose focus despite the difficult conditions under which they serve.
His visit came after a closed-door operational meeting with theatre, sector and unit commanders at the Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, where he reviewed the security situation and discussed ongoing military operations in the North-East.
Speaking to journalists, Lt. Gen. Shaibu said the visit was aimed at boosting the morale of officers and soldiers as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections.
“I am here in Maiduguri at the Operation Hadin Kai Theatre Command Headquarters, North East Joint Task Force, to see officers and men of the military, to encourage them to put in their best, talk to them and encourage them to put in their best to ensure we have a peaceful and conducive environment as we are approaching the general election and the electioneering campaign period,” he said.
The Army Chief later visited the military hospital and medical facilities within the theatre before addressing the troops.
He assured the soldiers that they were not alone in the fight against terrorism, saying the Army leadership remains committed to improving their welfare and providing the support needed to carry out their duties effectively.
Lt. Gen. Shaibu also told the troops that President Bola Tinubu and the Presidency appreciate their courage, resilience and sacrifices in defending Nigeria against terrorism and other security threats.
He urged them to remain disciplined, professional and responsive to operational demands, stressing that their commitment would help sustain the gains already recorded against insurgents and create a peaceful atmosphere for political campaigns and the 2027 general elections.
Operation Hadin Kai has remained at the centre of Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign in the North-East, where troops have continued to conduct clearance operations, dismantle terrorist hideouts, rescue kidnapped victims and protect communities from attacks.
With preparations for the 2027 elections gradually taking shape, security experts say maintaining peace in the region will be crucial to ensuring that citizens can participate freely in the democratic process.