The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, has commended the troops of the 199 Special Forces Battalion for their outstanding efforts in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency in the North-East.
General Abubakar gave the commendation on Wednesday, July 23, during an operational visit to the battalion’s base in Chabol, Maiduguri.
Addressing the troops, the Theatre Commander praised them for their courage and dedication in the face of persistent threats from Boko Haram insurgents. He described the battalion as a formidable force in the theatre of operations and conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, for their commitment and gallantry.
He urged the troops to sustain the momentum in their operations, assuring them that gallant acts would be duly recognized and rewarded. General Abubakar emphasized the importance of personnel welfare, reiterating that it remains a key pillar of the COAS’s leadership philosophy, which prioritizes sound administration and troop welfare.
The commander also commended Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) for their crucial role in mentoring and guiding junior soldiers, describing their contribution as vital to operational success and unit cohesion.
The Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, noted in a press statement that as part of the visit, Major General Abubakar commissioned a series of completed infrastructure projects initiated by the Commanding Officer of the battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Abba Idris.
The projects include a newly remodelled Officers’ Mess, Kitchen, Orderly Room, Medical Reception Station, Photo Stand, and Quarter Guard.
He applauded the Commanding Officer for his prudent use of resources and assured him of continued support for future developmental initiatives within the unit.
The visit also featured a symbolic tree-planting exercise, a guided tour of the renovated structures, exchange of souvenirs, and group photographs.
General Abubakar was accompanied by Component Commanders, including the Commander of the 402 Special Forces Brigade, Brigadier General Mohammed Shehu, and other senior officers from Headquarters Theatre Command.
