The Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Major General ST Audu, has charged troops deployed at the newly operationalised Forward Operating Base (FOB) Duji to intensify offensive operations against terrorists operating along the Nigeria–Niger border, while urging them to remain resolute in holding their ground.
General Audu gave the directive on Wednesday, 25 February 2026, during the operationalisation ceremony of FOB Duji in Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State, describing the base as a strategic platform in the ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist networks and restore lasting peace to the region.
Speaking at the event, the Force Commander emphasised that the establishment and operationalisation of FOB Duji is critical in denying terrorists freedom of movement across the porous Nigeria–Niger borders.
He noted that the base would play a significant role in enhancing border security, supporting ongoing counter-terrorism operations, and facilitating the reopening of the strategic Damasak–Maiduguri road.
According to him, the operational presence at Duji will strengthen surveillance, improve rapid response capabilities, and reinforce the security architecture of the North East, thereby consolidating the successes already recorded under ongoing operations.
While commending the troops for their courage and commitment, General Audu urged them to remain resolute, resilient, fearless, and dedicated in the discharge of their duties. He charged them to sustain aggressive and robust patrols aimed at neutralising terrorists and dismantling their enclaves in remote areas.
“You must hold this place with the best of your ability,” he told the troops, stressing that their presence in the area represents a decisive step towards restoring normalcy, protecting communities, and boosting public confidence.
The Force Commander further underscred the importance of synergy and collaboration among security forces. He highlighted the need for sustained cooperation between Nigerian troops, their Nigerien counterparts, and local forest guards, describing such collaboration as a force multiplier in tackling cross-border terrorism.
He assured the personnel of improved welfare, enhanced logistical support, and continued operational backing from the MNJTF leadership to enable them effectively carry out their mandate.
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the Commander Sector 3, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Suleiman Tilawan, described the operationalisation of FOB Duji as historic and a major milestone in the fight against terrorism in the region.
He explained that the establishment of the base marked the return of a strong military presence in an area that had long lacked adequate security coverage, thereby providing a renewed sense of hope to surrounding communities.
Major General Tilawan also expressed appreciation to the Executive Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, for his consistent logistical and material support, which he said was instrumental to the successful completion and operationalisation of the base.
He noted that the FOB, which was established in August 2025, has already enabled Sector 3 to maintain an active operational presence along the Nigeria–Niger borders. He added that troops at the base have been conducting coordinated combat operations in conjunction with Nigerien forces in Diffa, targeting terrorist elements and restoring stability across the region.
The Sector Commander further explained that the base would support efforts to reopen the Damasak–Duji–Diffa road, a critical route for economic activities, humanitarian access, and regional integration. He also highlighted its role in facilitating the safe and voluntary return of Nigerian refugees currently in Diffa, Niger Republic.
The ceremony attracted key stakeholders, including the Chairman of Mobbar Local Government Area, Hon. M. Gas; the Commander of Operation NALEWA in the Diffa region, General de Brigade Ali Hamidou Issa; Brigadier General SS Ahmed; as well as other senior military officers and dignitaries.
Observers note that the operationalisation of FOB Duji underscores the MNJTF’s renewed focus on strengthening border security, enhancing multinational cooperation, and sustaining momentum in the fight against terrorism across the Lake Chad Basin.
With the increased military presence and growing collaboration among regional forces, security experts believe that such forward deployments will significantly degrade terrorist capabilities, improve civilian protection, and create the enabling environment for reconstruction, resettlement, and socio-economic recovery in the North East and neighbouring border communities.
