Army names new commander for Boko Haram/ISWAP frontline

By Tolulope Oke

The Nigerian Army has appointed a new Theatre Commander for Operation Hadin Kai, the military formation leading the fight against Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists in the North-East.

Major General IA Ajose was appointed to head the Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North East, as part of a major reshuffle of senior officers across the Army.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, approved the redeployment of several generals and brigadier generals to key operational and administrative positions aimed at strengthening the military’s command structure.

The Army announced the changes on Wednesday through the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, saying the postings were designed to place officers with the required experience and expertise in strategic positions.

Major General Ajose moved to Operation Hadin Kai from the Army Headquarters Department of Army Operations, taking over leadership of the military’s major counter-insurgency operation in the North-East.

Other senior officers were also affected by the reshuffle.

Major General AE Abubakar, who previously served under Operation Hadin Kai, was redeployed to the Nigerian Army Heritage and Future Centre as Dean, Faculty of Operational Research.

Major General RT Utsaha moved to Defence Headquarters Garrison as Commander, while Major General AM Umar was appointed Commandant of the Army War College Nigeria.

At the brigade level, Brigadier General MS Adamu was named Commander of the newly established 8 Brigade, while Brigadier General MS Sule was redeployed to command 27 Task Force Brigade.

The Chief of Army Staff charged the newly appointed officers to demonstrate professionalism, operational innovation and commitment as they take up their new responsibilities.

The Army said the changes were part of efforts to improve operational effectiveness and strengthen Nigeria’s response to evolving security threats.

Dear Vows