By Nkechi Eze
Major General Ibikunle Ajose has formally assumed command of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), succeeding Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, who handed over the leadership of the Theatre Command on Tuesday.
The handover ceremony was held at the Headquarters of the Theatre Command, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.
Major General Ajose, the 16th Theatre Commander, said the mandate of Operation HADIN KAI remained unchanged, with the focus on restoring normalcy in the North East and creating an enabling environment for socio-economic activities to thrive.
In his maiden address, the new Theatre Commander said he was familiar with the operational environment, having previously served as Commander, 5 Brigade, and Chief of Staff, Force Special Forces Command, in Borno State.
He said his knowledge of the terrain and operational experience would be deployed towards strengthening ongoing efforts to end terrorism and other security threats across the North East.
Ajose commended his predecessor for the progress recorded under his leadership, pledging to sustain and consolidate the gains while maintaining existing partnerships with the Borno State Government, humanitarian organisations, Hybrid Forces, Civilian Joint Task Force, the media and other stakeholders.
The outgoing Theatre Commander, Major General Abubakar, charged troops to remain professional, committed and dedicated to their duties, urging them to honour fallen colleagues who paid the supreme sacrifice by sustaining the fight against terrorism.
He also appealed to troops and other stakeholders to extend the cooperation and loyalty accorded him to his successor, whom he described as a battle-tested infantry general whose experience would contribute to consolidating the gains already recorded in the Theatre.
According to a statement by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the ceremony featured the signing of handing-over notes, addresses to troops, the quarter guard, lowering and hoisting of the Regimental Colours, presentation of awards and souvenirs, and a group photograph.
The transition marks the commencement of Major General Ajose’s tenure as Theatre Commander as Operation HADIN KAI continues its mandate of degrading terrorist threats and restoring lasting stability across the North East.
