General Shaibu says non-kinetic approach, crucial in counterinsurgency operations

Major General W. Shaibu, the Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force (JTF) North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has emphasized the pivotal role of non-kinetic strategies in bolstering counterinsurgency efforts in the North East region.

According to Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations Headquarters Theatre Command, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the Accra Initiative (AI) for Regional Strand on Non-kinetic Strategy in Combatting Insurgency, led by Honorable Aliyu Ibrahim Gebi, National Coordinator of Security Governance Initiative and Adviser to the Chief of Defence Staff on non-kinetic matters, at the Headquarters Theatre Command in Maiduguri today, Major General Shaibu stressed that solely relying on kinetic approaches was insufficient in addressing insurgency challenges.

Representing the Theatre Commander, Major General K.E. Chigbu highlighted the multifaceted approach undertaken by the Theatre Command, encompassing various non-kinetic initiatives such as educational infrastructure development, provision of basic amenities like water through borehole drilling, medical outreach programs, and fostering community engagement activities like school and Qur’anic recitation competitions.

These efforts have yielded tangible results, including the voluntary surrender of numerous insurgents.
Major General Shaibu commended the collaborative efforts between the Theatre Command and other security components including the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, and other security agencies operating in the North East.

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He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the Borno State Government, supported by the federal government and agencies such as the North East Development Commission, towards non-kinetic endeavors aimed at fostering peace and stability in the region.

Expressing gratitude for the visit, Major General Shaibu reiterated the military’s commitment as a key stakeholder in restoring peace to the North East, emphasizing that it aligns with the mandate of Operation HADIN KAI.

In his remarks, Honourable Aliyu Gebi outlined the purpose of the delegation’s visit, emphasizing their organization’s focus on providing non-kinetic support to ongoing military operations.

He extended condolences for the recent loss of Nigerian Army personnel in Delta State and commended the sacrifices made by the Nigerian military.

The visit included an interactive session, signing of the visitor’s book, exchange of souvenirs, and a group photograph. Notable attendees included Major General Michael Amoah, Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force Accra Initiative, Brigadier General S. Adamu, Commander of Operation SAFE CORRIDOR, Component Commanders, the Chief of Staff Headquarters Theatre Command, senior officers, and other dignitaries from the Accra Initiative.