As Major General Abdulsalam Enesi Abubakar, the current Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), marks his birthday on 6 October 2025, colleagues, subordinates and admirers across Nigeria’s security community have continued to celebrate his life of service, courage and humility.
Renowned for his operational brilliance and calm command presence, Major General Abubakar is widely regarded as one of the Nigerian Army’s most dependable field commanders whose leadership has contributed significantly to the restoration of peace and stability in areas affected by insurgency.
Those who have served under him describe his leadership style as a blend of firmness and compassion, a commander who demands excellence from his troops but never loses touch with the human side of soldiering. For General Abubakar, every military operation goes beyond neutralising threats. It also involves protecting lives, rebuilding trust and restoring hope among communities affected by conflict.
Beyond his operational achievements, the Theatre Commander has remained passionate about humanitarian initiatives that bridge the gap between the military and civilians. He has championed several civil-military cooperation projects, including medical outreaches, educational support and community rehabilitation, ensuring that the military’s presence brings development rather than despair. His humility, accessibility and commitment to the welfare of troops and civilians have earned him respect and admiration across ranks and formations.
Colleagues describe him as a selfless leader whose quiet strength and empathy inspire confidence and loyalty. Despite his senior rank, General Abubakar remains approachable and people-oriented, a leader whose influence derives from integrity, not intimidation.
As he celebrates another year of life and service, Major General Abubakar continues to stand out as a model of leadership built on discipline, compassion and purpose. His story underscores the belief that true greatness in uniform lies not only in commanding men, but in serving humanity with honour.
Over the course of his distinguished career, Major General Abubakar has held several key command and staff appointments that highlight his operational expertise and strategic depth.
He previously served as Sector 3 Commander, Operation Hadin Kai; General Officer Commanding (GOC), 7 Division; and later GOC, 3 Division of the Nigerian Army. He also served as Deputy Commandant, National Defence College, where he contributed to the training and intellectual growth of senior officers across the Armed Forces.
Currently, as Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai, he leads ongoing counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations in the North East. Under his leadership, the Theatre has recorded significant successes in stabilising the region, enhancing troop morale and strengthening civil-military relations.
A consummate professional and humanitarian at heart, Major General AE Abubakar exemplifies the core values of honour, loyalty and service that define the Nigerian Army.
Deji Adesogan, is a security analyst and digital communications expert. He can be reached via adesoganmedia@gmail.com or on X (Twitter) @DejiAdesogan.